JUDO NEW ZEALAND

Weightlifter David Liti and Judo athlete Moira de Villiers (CJA CA) have been named The New Zealand Team Ngā Pou Hāpai (Flag bearer and Baton bearer) for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

de Villiers has been named Pou Hāpai - Wahine and will carry Te Kaunoti, New Zealand’s King's Baton, into the ceremony.

The pair were formally announced by New Zealand Team Chef de Mission Nigel Avery at a special gathering of athletes, partners, friends and whānau at New Zealand House in Glasgow.

De Villiers said receiving the call from Avery was a special moment.

“When I got the call it was unbelievable. This is a chance for me to represent not only my family and my club, but the entire nation and I think it’s such a special thing to be a representative for Judo as well,” said de Villiers.

“The New Zealand Team feels like one big whānau, we all just come together, support and lead with each other. It’s an honour to carry the baton and I hope I can make everyone proud.”

New Zealand Team Chef de Mission, Nigel Avery said the naming of Ngā Pou Hāpai is one of the highest honours for a New Zealand Team member.

"David and Moira are highly respected members of this Team. They lead through their actions and the way they support and inspire those around them along with the pride they take in representing Aotearoa New Zealand shines through. We couldn't ask for two better people to carry the flag and baton into Glasgow 2026."

Avery elaborated further on the reasons for selecting de Villiers as New Zealand Team Ngā Pou Hāpai.

“I remember a social post from Moira of her stitching a fern onto her singlet from a previous Games where each of her family members took turns at putting some stitches in it. That just shows the love she has for our country and our team. Her first Commonwealth Games medal was here in Glasgow 12 years ago, so this is a bit of a full circle moment and I know she’s ready to go,” he said.

JNZ congratulates Moira for receiving this honour.