Sustainable innovation at the Masters Games

Published on 26 January 2023

Downer New Zealand Masters Games 2023 media release

There'll be a change in how you pay to play at the Downer New Zealand Masters Games Village in Whanganui this year in February.

Among efforts to reduce the event’s carbon footprint is the introduction of Wayver, a cashless payment system to the Games Village, located at Whanganui’s War Memorial Centre.

Games Manager Heather Cox says the Wayver cards are an exciting new addition to the New Zealand Masters Games that will make it easy to keep playing while at the Village.

“Many people will be familiar with the concept from major events such as Toast Martinborough, the Rhythm and Vines concert in Gisborne, and Brew Day in Wellington.

“As well as reducing potential queueing times and replacing the old paper ticket system where tickets could be easily lost or damaged, our Games Passes merges Village accreditation with your payment method. Think of it like your wallet for the week.” says Heather Cox.

Participants and supporters will be encouraged to return their Games Pass at the end of the event, to be reused for future Games. If there are any funds remaining on the card they will be able to get a refund at the Games Village and online for a short time after the Games ends.

In another effort to reduce waste, principal partner Downer New Zealand have partnered with textile waste recovery company Upparel to help recycle old, branded material that was unable to be reused this year, including corflute signage and medal ribbons.

Heather Cox says “As an organisation we are doing everything that we can to reduce our carbon footprint. We’ve been really fortunate that Downer was able to offer us a solution for recycling, repurposing and re-using our old signage and equipment.”

The Games will be officially opened with a pōwhiri and opening ceremony to be held at the Games Village at the War Memorial Centre from 6.30pm on Friday 3 February. The Games Village is open to the public each day during the Games until 5pm, when a Games Pass is required for access. Supporter and one day passes will be available to purchase from the Games Village from 1 February.

For more information about the Games visit nzmg.com.