Wellington athletes, teams, coaches and community organisations were among the major winners at the 2026 Āti Awa Toa Wellington Regional Sports Awards.
Tawa-born White Ferns star Amelia Kerr was named Sportsperson of the Year. Kerr attended Tawa College and has represented the Wellington Blaze during a career that has established her among the leading players in international cricket.
Wellington College athlete Joe Martin was named Rangatahi Sportsperson of the Year. A member of Wellington Scottish Athletics Club, Martin has emerged as one of New Zealand’s leading young middle-distance runners.
The Wellington Phoenix Women’s Team won the performance Team of the Year award, while Wellington Samoa Kirikiti Association was one of four recipients recognised for Community Impact.
Long-serving Wellington cycling coach Gary Gibson received the community Coach of the Year award. Gibson has been closely involved with junior cycling through PNP Cycling Club and Wellington’s velodrome for many years.
Wellington open-water swimmer Gráinne Moss received the Lifetime Contribution award, recognising her achievements in marathon swimming as well as her fundraising, mentoring and support for others.
Four major sporting figures were also inducted into the Sports Legends of Wellington: Trish Hina, the late Jerry Collins, Rodney So’oialo and Irene van Dyk.
The awards were held at Wellington College on 20 August and recognise sporting achievement alongside the volunteers, coaches and community leaders supporting sport and recreation across the Wellington region.
