Te Awamutu College’s Daniel Kits in action during the games. Photo – Halberg/Photosport NZ
This year’s Halberg Awards saw some of sport’s best and fastest receive due recognition; as for future recipients, some may have already embarked on their road to the top thanks to the recent Halberg Games.
Te Awamutu College’s Daniel Kits in action during the games. Photo – Halberg/Photosport NZ
Featuring athletes aged 8 to 21 from throughout the country with physical or visual impairments, the games provide a springboard for higher competition while celebrating inclusiveness.
Auckland’s King’s College hosted the even over Anzac weekend and it featured more than 200 athletes, including Te Awamutu College’s Daniel Kits.
“It went very well, it was fun. It wasn’t a competitive thing; it was more about friendly, fun games. I played a lot of sports – cricket, netball, indoor rowing, archery and rock climbing. It was great because it was a change from what I’ve been doing,” the 18-year-old said.
Cambridge High School’s Thomas Szabo in action during the games. Photo: Halberg-Photosport NZ
“I usually do athletics, I’m a middle-distance runner, 800 to 1,500 metres mostly. Even if I don’t win a medal at the Paralympics, I’ll definitely try and qualify for it.”
While he’s not ruling out making a play for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, Brisbane in 2032 may be a better option, especially as he’s keen to concentrate on his studies first.
“After I finish school, I’ll probably study teaching at Waikato University so I can then become a science teacher,” he said.
The Halberg Games marked its 10th anniversary and Daniel, who has cerebral palsy, made his debut this year. He says the event exceeded, his expectations.
“It was my first time there – we haven’t been able to go in the past. It was definitely better than I thought. I really enjoyed it. Just seeing other people who are disabled having fun was really cool.”
In total, 23 awards were presented to athletes and supporters for their efforts over the course of the Halberg Games.
Te Awamutu College’s Daniel Kits in action during the games. Photo – Halberg/Photosport NZ
Waikato team photo, Day 1 of the 10th Halberg Games at King’s College, Auckland, New Zealand on Thursday 24 April 2025. © Photo: Andrew Cornaga / Photosport
