Passion for sports is an important segment of the cultural identity in New Zealand, and the locals are genuinely interested in many different disciplines. Of course, each of them is seen in a different way, but they all inspire the same set of emotions – pride, joy, competitiveness, and a sense of unity with like-minded individuals. If you’re looking to explore this topic in detail, check out this list of most popular sports in the country:
Rugby Union
Rugby union is more than just a sport in New Zealand, as many would say – it is also a way of life. The national rugby team known as the All Blacks is regarded as legendary, and the majority of the locals show genuine support in all possible tournaments. What’s more, rugby is one of the most popular categories when it comes to sports and casino betting New-Zealand. Wagering is a common practice in the area, and people love placing bets on their favourite teams. Rugby is essentially the country’s national sport, and many people grew up playing it, so it is no wonder that New Zealand is also home to numerous professional players.
Cricket
Cricket is another great passion shared by the people of New Zealand, and the widespread enthusiasm for the game is one of the key reasons why the Black Caps are regularly ranked among the top teams in the world. Also, from the incredible Sir Richard Hadlee to the modern-day skipper Kane Williamson – the nation produced some pretty amazing players. What’s more, sights like the breathtaking Hagley Oval in Christchurch and the well-known Wellington Basin Reserve hosted a number of international matches. It is common for the locals to gather around such events and cheer for their favourites.
Football
New Zealand has a rich football history, and the locals see it as a diverse sport full of passion. Also, with more than 400,000 registered players, it is surely among the most popular sports in the region. And just like the two previously mentioned disciplines – it has a significant role both on the amateur and professional levels. The nation’s main professional competition is called the ISPS Handa Premiership, and it includes ten clubs from different parts of the country. Similarly to rugby union, it is also one of the top choices when it comes to online betting. And due to the sport’s worldwide popularity, it is a great opportunity for the nation to demonstrate its abilities on a global scale.
Tennis
Thanks to the country’s stunning scenery, sports like tennis are thriving in the area. Just imagine playing a game surrounded by such natural beauties. Even though the landscape is pretty harsh, there is always room for wonderful tennis courts with spectacular views. The popularity of the sport has grown progressively among the locals, and New Zealand has also produced some amazing players like Belinda Cordwell and Marina Erakovic, both ranked in the top 40. Moreover, we have to mention the ASB Classic which is an international event organized every year in Auckland. As such, it attracts some of the greatest players out there.
Golf
Playing golf in New Zealand is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. With more than 390 courses scattered across the territory, the country is a real haven for golf enthusiasts. Of course, many of them come with astonishing surroundings that can hardly be found elsewhere in the world. In fact, the surroundings are so unique that New Zealand is also one of the top destinations when it comes to golf-related tourism. It is also the home country to some of the most outstanding players we know of. For instance, Sir Bob Charles, the winner of the 1963 Open Championship has the status of a national legend. Namely, the New Zealand Open is the country’s main golfing tournament that attracts competitors from all corners of the globe.
New Zealand really is a sports-loving country, and the variety of disciplines listed above shows the diversity of passion that is spread among the locals. From team-based rugby union to individual categories like golf, there is something for everyone to enjoy, and the people of New Zealand are equally interested in sports professionally and as amateurs.
