The XP Gymnastics Nationals returns to Tauranga from 29 September–3 October 2026, bringing New Zealand's top gymnasts together at Mercury Baypark for five days of competition across aerobics, men's and women's artistic, rhythmic, and trampoline gymnastics.
Whether you're supporting an athlete, following the action, or looking for an inspiring school holiday activity, the XP Gymnastics Nationals is a chance to experience spectacular performances, supporters from across the country, and the excitement of New Zealand's premier gymnastics event. With qualification events now complete, the road to Nationals continues as athletes across the country prepare for Tauranga this September.
Road to Nationals
- James Dougal (TRA): Chasing More Than Another Title
- Emma McCaughan (AER): More Than an Athlete – 13 Years and Counting
- Abel Standen (MAG): From climbing furniture to senior competition
- Courtney McGregor: Coming back on her own terms
Newsletters
- Newsletter #4 - 9 September
- Newsletter #3 - 6 August
- Newsletter #2 - 8 July
- Newsletter #1 - 3 June
Other News
Some of the best moments in gymnastics happen outside of competition results.
The smiles after a routine. The support of teammates. A coach sharing in the excitement. The pride of representing your club or province. The cheers from the sidelines. The people who make competition days possible. The moments that stay with you long after the competition is over.
These are the moments we want to celebrate through #ManahauMoment.
If you capture a moment that made you smile, laugh, feel proud, or simply reminded you why you love gymnastics, share it with us.
A #ManahauMoment might be:
- A celebration after a routine.
- Teammates supporting each other.
- A proud coach, parent, or whānau moment.
- The atmosphere and energy around a competition.
- A moment that made you smile.
Share Your Moment and You Could Win
Thanks to our official equipment partner, GymStuff Limited, sharing your #ManahauMoment could also win you one of two mini apparatus prizes, together valued at approximately $7,000 (excl. GST).
Clubs and individual members can enter, and individual winners can choose to keep their prize for home use or gift it to their club.
Find out how to enter and see the prizes.
You can also download our #ManahauMoment sticker to add to your photos and videos before sharing.
Be part of the team behind the XP Gymnastics Nationals.
It takes a great team of people to bring Nationals to life, and we’re looking for enthusiastic and reliable volunteers to join us at Mercury Baypark, Tauranga, from 29 September–3 October.
Volunteering is a chance to experience Nationals from a different perspective, meet people from across our gymnastics community, and play a part in creating a great event for our athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators.
There’s a wide range of roles available, with something to suit different interests and experience. You don’t need to be a gymnastics expert to get involved, and volunteers receive free event entry on the days they volunteer.
Ready to be part of it? Complete the 2026 volunteer form to register your interest.
Timetables are all in draft until after entries have been finalised early September. With the final timetables, days are unlikely to change and session times will be added.
Official merchandise for the 2026 XP Gymnastics Nationals is now available to order. Pro Sportswear's official 2026 XP Gymnastics Nationals range includes hoodies, t-shirts, singlets, and the popular Nationals bear.
To order
- Go to the Pro Sportswear website.
- Use the password: xpgym26.
- Orders can be shipped or collected at the venue.
- If you would like your order shipped, it must be placed by Friday 21 August. Orders placed after this date can only be collected at the venue.
- For venue collection, use the code NZCOLLECT at checkout and bring your order number with you to collect.
The final deadline for all online orders is Friday 18 September. After this date, merchandise can only be purchased at the event.
There is also limited stock of 2025 merchandise available at discounted prices, so you can add this to your order while stocks last.
Athlete T-Shirts
This year’s athlete t-shirt is navy and will again feature the names of all athletes entered in Nationals on the back. It is available online only and must be ordered by 4 September 2026.
Please note that the charcoal and white t-shirts are standard event t-shirts and do not include athlete names. Please choose carefully, as exchanges cannot be made once orders have been placed.
The 2026 XP Gymnastics Nationals will bring athletes, coaches, judges, volunteers, and supporters from across New Zealand to Tauranga.
If you're travelling to the event, we encourage you to take some time to explore the region while you're here. Whether you're looking for a great place to eat, somewhere to relax between sessions, or activities to enjoy with family and friends, Tauranga has plenty to offer.
To help you make the most of your visit, we've partnered with Tourism Bay of Plenty to share some local recommendations.
Check out the top 10 things to do in Tauranga.
- Stroll along the Marine Parade coastal pathway. This 3km walk begins at Hinekite (Mount Main Beach), curving through the dunes and alongside the coast with endless views.
- Cruise Mount Mainstreet. With its relaxed feel and boutiques showcasing local designers, the streets are lined with vibrant stores best enjoyed at holiday pace.
- Soak the day away at the newly renovated Fernland Spa.
- Be inspired at the stunning Toi Tauranga Art Gallery, then treat yourself next door at Breadhead.
- Take a walk to the breathtaking Ōmanawa Falls, then refuel at Ōmanawa Cafe with coffee, smoothies, and local bites.
- Visit Tauranga Farmers’ Market on Saturdays for in-season produce, flowers, and good vibes.
- Visit McLaren Falls Park to explore the waterfall loop track and spot glowworms after dark.
- If you’re into skateboarding, scooting or BMX, check out the Mount Maunganui destination skatepark for some fun.
- Experience glowworms by moonlight on a guided kayak trip with Waimarino.
- Explore the revamped Tauranga waterfront and playground. Pack your togs for a splash at the new swim pontoon or manu platform.
Download the Explore Bay of Plenty App - your official guide to the region’s best experiences, deals, events, and hidden gems. Or visit bayofplentynz.com.
A big thank you to our sponsors and supporters.
