Volleyball New Zealand acknowledges with profound sadness the recent tragedy at Mauao. We extend our deepest aroha to the whānau, friends, and the wider Mount Maunganui community as you grieve the loss of those who have passed. We stand with you in this time of mourning.

We acknowledge and thank the emergency response and recovery teams for their tireless efforts, and we recognise the ongoing mahi required as our community continues to heal and strengthen its resilience.

Mount Maunganui has been a home to beach volleyball for generations and holds deep cultural and sporting significance. It is a place of connection, identity, and community. To our local whānau — we are with you.

Ahead of the International FIVB World Pro Beach Volleyball Tour – Mount Maunganui Futures 2026, taking place 5–8 February at Mount Maunganui Main Beach, Volleyball New Zealand has remained in close and ongoing communication with tangata whenua and relevant authorities. This ensures all appropriate safety measures are in place and that tikanga and care for place and people are upheld throughout this period.

This international Futures event will bring world-class beach volleyball athletes to our shores, alongside our national players who have qualified. We hope the presence of live sport in this space can offer moments of connection, unity, and uplift for the community during a difficult time.

The event is free to attend, with no tickets required, and warmly welcomes all whānau and members of the community.

Ngā mihi nui,

Volleyball New Zealand - Poirewa Aotearoa

Article added: Monday 02 February 2026