Badminton New Zealand announced on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, that they have withdrawn from hosting the New Zealand Open for the 2023-2026 cycle.
This decision was reached after careful consideration by the board and valuable input from their member associations, as part of a strategic focus on strengthening the foundations of badminton in New Zealand.
Badminton New Zealand stated that canceling the New Zealand Open was a very difficult decision, especially given the iconic status of the event, however, Badminton New Zealand and its members agree that growing participation and building strong and resilient badminton organizations are more important priorities in the next few years.
Badminton New Zealand Chief Executive Stephen Nelson reflects on the decision.
“While it is disappointing to be farewelling the New Zealand Open for the foreseeable future, Badminton New Zealand is excited to utilize this opportunity to reallocate its time and energy towards building the grass-roots of our sport. This will see us strengthening our foundations and those of our member associations.”
Nelson concludes,
“Badminton New Zealand is committed to growing the game and inspiring kiwis to love badminton for life. We firmly believe that this decision puts us in the best position to achieve this.”