The New Zealand city of Tauranga has been confirmed as the host of the 2028 World Triathlon Championship Grand Final, as part of a three-year partnership with World Triathlon. The announcement, made on Monday in Tauranga itself, marks the return of the event to New Zealand after more than a decade and a half.

The agreement was presented by Triathlon New Zealand, in collaboration with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment -MBIE-, Tauranga City Council, and World Triathlon. Both local and national authorities highlighted not only the sporting impact of the event but also its long-term economic and tourism benefits, with over 6,000 international visitors expected and an estimated tourism spend of 25 million dollars.

A cycle of events

According to Triathlon New Zealand CEO and World Triathlon Executive Board Member Pete de Wet, the announcement marks a major milestone for the country: “Today is a momentous day for triathlon in New Zealand. After 16 years of absence, the World Triathlon Championship Series Grand Final will return to our shores in 2028, and we couldn’t be prouder.” De Wet also highlighted the unique opportunity for local athletes, both elite and amateur, to compete at home in front of their supporters.

The cycle of events will begin in 2026 with a World Triathlon Cup, followed by a World Triathlon Championship Series race in 2027, and will culminate in 2028 with the Grand Final, which includes the Age Group World Championships, the Para Triathlon World Championships, and the World Triathlon Congress. The latter will bring together more than 160 international delegates, creating further impact across sectors such as hospitality, conferences and regional employment.

Three years of global exposure and tourism

Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Louise Upston emphasised the strategic value of hosting these events: “Over the three years, the events are expected to attract more than 6,000 international visitors, generating 100,000 visitor nights and 25 million dollars in tourism spend.” Upston noted that the Major Events Fund helps position New Zealand as a leading destination for high-performance sport and international tourism.

Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale celebrated the announcement as a historic opportunity for the city: “Securing these World Triathlon events is an achievement that reflects our ambition to be a premier destination for major international competitions.” Drysdale pointed out that Tauranga already has a strong triathlon tradition, with annual events such as the Mount Festival of Multisport, the Tinman Triathlon, and the Surfbreaker Triathlon, all of which are well embedded in the local community.

From Auckland to Tauranga

World Triathlon President Antonio Arimany expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the sport’s biggest event back to a country with a proud triathlon legacy: “After Auckland many years ago, we are returning to New Zealand to celebrate the biggest event we have. I’m looking forward to seeing you all there, and I encourage everyone — we will have a great time in Tauranga.”

The organisation noted that the races will be broadcast and promoted globally, showcasing Tauranga’s coastal landscapes to the world, boosting trade, and strengthening tourism. In addition, the event’s impact will also be measured through volunteer opportunities, job creation, and community involvement, with a legacy that goes well beyond the stopwatch and the finish line.