New Zealand High Commission: A diplomatic match

Here at the New Zealand High Commission, we work hard, but we also know how to play hard!

One example of this is the inaugural Diplomatic Community Mixed Netball Tournament which took place in March at Tanglin Trust Sports Hall. Our friends at the British High Commission organised a fantastic Sunday morning of sport comprising six teams made up from the UK High Commission, Australian High Commission, NZ High Commission, and a mix of players from Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Trade and Industry.

Beset by injuries, international travel, family commitments (and perhaps an ingrained fear of the three second rule), our mighty team comprised representatives across the High Commission, Defence Force, Education NZ and the Asia NZ Foundation, along with Kiwi friends and whānau – truly a NZ Inc effort.

While everyone on our team had played before, for some senior members this meant pulling out high school moves we thought were many years behind us. Thankfully, there were a few young’uns from the community helping us out, too.

We loved getting on the court, building closer relationships and connections with everyone involved. While NZ were not victorious this time, everyone gave it their all. A big shout out goes to Frankie Burrowes, 11, daughter of Ben Burrowes from Education NZ, who took a knock to her hand but continued to bravely soldier on after a spot of First Aid.

The pizza afterwards rounded off a thoroughly enjoyable morning with lots of laughs and camaraderie. We already look forward to next year’s event – watch out Australia, we’re coming for you and the cup!