
Track & Field Events
Track and Field includes events held on a stadium 400m track and on the field inside the track, with a mix of running, jumping and throwing events. Here’s a quick explainer of the typical events you can expect at your next Track and Field meet.

Throws
Throwing events include shot put, discus, hammer throw and javelin. In New Zealand we are proud of the athletes who have performed in these disciplines on the international stage at the highest levels.

Jumps
Track and Field jumps include long jump, triple jump, high jump and pole vault. Local athletics clubs and schools provide training and opportunities for long jump, triple jump and high jump. However pole vault requires specialist equipment and coaching that may not be available in all areas. New Zealanders perform competitively in jumping events globally, which is a mark of the quality coaching of our Track and Field events.

Sprints
Sprinting events include the 100m, 200m and 400m and are incredibly accessible even in the lowest socioeconomic communities with little needed by way of equipment. Sprint speed can give team-sport players a significant advantage, which is part of what makes athletics such a popular summer sport - so that they can train in their off season for their team sports.

Middle & long distance
New Zealanders have a proud history as one of the world’s best middle- and long-distance running nations. With specialty coaches across the country, no matter your ability, middle and long-distance events are easy to register for, no matter your ability or fitness levels.

Hurdles
Hurdles has two events: ‘short hurdles’ over shorter distances of 80m – 110m, and ‘long hurdles’ over 300m and 400m. Hurdlers need to have a mix of speed, coordination, balance and rhythm - a great sport to compete in and watch.

Combined Events
The decathlon (10 event competition) and heptathlon (7 event competition) are common combinations of many different track and field events, with competitors needing to be all rounders at the full range of throwing, jumping and running events.