Announcement

Auckland to Host Inaugural Indigenous Touch World Cup in 2027.

The world's first Indigenous Touch World Cup is officially set to take place in November 2027, with Mountfort Park in Manurewa, Auckland - today announced as the host venue for the historic four-day event.

Organised by the WAI (We Are Indigenous) Foundation, a Charitable Trust based in Aotearoa New Zealand, the Indigenous Touch World Cup has been created to provide a platform where Indigenous peoples from around the world can come together in competition, connection and cultural celebration.

"This is more than just another touch tournament," says WAI Foundation Chairperson Patariki Spellman. "We've worked tirelessly to ensure this event is a true reflection of who we are as Indigenous peoples. This tournament is about pride, whakapapa, and a space for our own expression on the global stage."

Unlike traditional international tournaments, eligibility for the Indigenous Touch World Cup is based on whakapapa/genealogy to Indigenous or First Nations peoples, not national affiliation.

Teams may represent a Nation, Village, Mob or Group, opening the door for many communities previously unacknowledged in mainstream international formats.

Spellman explains: "The existing international body only allows one nation per country. That may work for some, but it doesn't work for us. This tournament is our response to that — it's our chance to 'sing another song,' one that sounds like liberation."

The tournament is already drawing strong international interest, with EOl's from across the globe.

WAI Foundation is working closely with funders, corporate partners, government and Auckland Council to ensure the tournament is accessible and affordable, especially for Indigenous communities where travel costs may otherwise be a barrier.

"Cost is a major hurdle for many of our Pacific and Indigenous nations," Spellman adds. "We're doing everything we can to break that down and make this a true gathering of the global Indigenous touch community."

CULTURE. COMMUNITY. CONNECTION TOGETHER, IN TOUCH.

Manurewa Local Board Chairperson Matt Winiata welcomed the announcement, calling it a proud moment for the community.

"Manurewa is the spiritual home of touch in Auckland. Mountfort Park will be in pristine condition come 2027, and we look forward to welcoming thousands from around the world to this special place," Winiata says. "The Local Board and Auckland Council are proud to support this kaupapa and help create a professional, high-standard event that reflects the mana of all who will stand on that field."

Mãori Touch NZ Chairperson Finney Davis expressed strong support for the event:

"Mãori Touch NZ is proud to support WAl Foundation and this special tournament in 2027. Mãori Touch NZ acknowledges the importance of indigenous events, having held two tournaments similar to this format in 2008 & 2010. We know how hard a task it was back then and are in total support of the planned event. We look forward to fielding teams in all grades and playing alongside our fellow native brothers and sisters."

Touch New Zealand Chief Executive Joe Sprangers only sees value in the launch of the upcoming Tournament, extending Touch NZ's full support:

"Touch New Zealand is proud to support this indigenous kaupapa which provides a wider opportunity for many of our people to participate in the sport they love through an indigenous lens and representing the many indigenous peoples of the world."

The Indigenous Touch World Cup 2027 is expected to attract thousands of participants, supporters and spectators from every corner of the globe, shining an international spotlight on Manurewa and the Indigenous cultures represented.

For more information and updates follow the progress of this kaupapa on all social media platforms - search World indigenous Touch Cup.