New Zealand have won the 2026 Asia Pacific Sprint Cup, the first time since the event’s inception in 2018. The young kiwi team lead the points race from day one at the 3 day international event at Lake Tikitapu in Rotorua, against visiting nations Australia, Japan and Singapore. In the end, it was a dominant 30 point victory against 6 time-defending champions Australia, with Japan in 3rd and Singapore finishing fourth.
The conditions could not have been more perfect for a sprint event, with glassy calm water for almost the entirety of the event. The only weather issue was some low lying fog on the final morning which delayed racing for about 90 minutes before suddenly lifting. During the fog delayed the athletes entertained themselves and kept warm with an all nations dance party, which saw almost all the athletes moving and connecting on the lakeside. It was one of many highlights of the event.
There were many other notable moments throughout the event for the New Zealand team. The opening ceremony and performance by a local kapa haka group showcased the Māori culture and shared the history and significance of Rotorua and was a treat for the international visitors and the locals. The New Zealand Under 18 women cleansweeping the podium in the WK1 500m final was special and there were so many other results and performances that the New Zealand team should be proud of (too many to name here). All these results led to NZ taking home the Asia Pacific cup for the first time, a special accomplishment for the young team and coaches.
Final Points for Asia Pacific Cup
New Zealand 389 points
Australia 359 points
Japan 329 points
Singapore 249 points
Event results
Photo gallery thanks to Finbar Chesney
