David Liti and Moira de Villiers to lead New Zealand at Glasgow opening ceremony
Weightlifter David Liti and judo athlete Moira de Villiers have been selected to lead the New Zealand team at the opening ceremony of the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. Liti will serve as Pou Hāpai – Tāne, carrying the New Zealand flag, while de Villiers, named Pou Hāpai – Wahine, will carry Te Kaunoti, the King’s Baton, into the ceremony.
The announcement was made by New Zealand Team Chef de Mission Nigel Avery during a gathering in Glasgow that included athletes, partners, friends, and whānau. This selection marks a significant honour for both athletes as they represent their nation on the international stage.
Athletes express pride in their roles
De Villiers described receiving the call from Avery as a special moment. She noted that it was an unbelievable opportunity to represent her family, her club, and the entire nation. She also highlighted the significance of being a representative for judo through this role.
Liti shared his pride in carrying the flag, calling it a privilege. He reflected on his first Commonwealth Games, where he had considered carrying the flag a distant dream. Now, after two subsequent Commonwealth Games, he has the chance to represent everyone and uphold the standards of the athletes from the New Zealand team.
De Villiers further expressed that the New Zealand Team functions like a large whānau, with members supporting and leading each other. She stated that carrying the baton is an honour and she hopes to make everyone proud.
Liti also mentioned his desire to inspire children in New Zealand, wanting them to understand that anything is possible. He believes that by carrying the flag for the New Zealand Team, he is encouraging these children to dream big.
Significance of the selection
Nigel Avery, New Zealand Team Chef de Mission, emphasised that being named Ngā Pou Hāpai is among the highest honours for a member of the New Zealand Team. He praised both Liti and de Villiers as highly respected members of the team.
Avery noted that their leadership is evident through their actions, their support for others, and the pride they show in representing Aotearoa New Zealand. He stated that the team could not have asked for two better individuals to carry the flag and baton into Glasgow 2026.
Avery provided further insight into the reasons behind selecting Liti and de Villiers. He described Liti as embodying the culture and values of the New Zealand Team, highlighting his availability, popularity among peers, and humility. Avery believes Liti is an excellent fit to carry the flag.
Regarding de Villiers, Avery recalled a social media post where she was seen stitching a fern onto her singlet from a previous Games, with family members contributing stitches. This, he said, demonstrates her deep affection for the country and the team. Avery also noted that de Villiers’ first Commonwealth Games medal was won in Glasgow 12 years ago, making this a significant full-circle moment for her.
New Zealand will be represented by 114 athletes competing at the Games over the next ten days, with the event commencing on July 23.
Read Also
Source: rnz.co.nz
