Following the launch of the Gold Coast Commonwealth Reconciliation Action Plan, the New Zealand Commonwealth Games team will look to build a meaningful partnership with the first nation people of the Gold Coast.
During New Zealand’s Commonwealth Games campaign the Kiwi team will identify opportunities for cultural exchange and learning with the Yugambeh people of the Gold Coast. The initiative will be part of the NZOC’s ongoing commitment to building meaningful partnerships with the peoples of host nations.
The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a business initiative documenting what organisations can do within their sphere of influence to contribute to reconciliation in Australia.
Gold Coast 2018 believes the RAP will help to generate awareness and recognise indigenous culture, as well as building respect for traditional land owners.
It is hoped the plan will help to increase understanding of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, in turn increasing respect of the values and heritage of Australia’s First Peoples.
"The RAP is an opportunity for Games partners to deliver legacy outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," said Queensland's Minister for the Commonwealth Games Kate Jones.
The NZOC commends the RAP and team members will be excited to experience and learn about the range of cultures on display on the Gold Coast.
New Zealand Commonwealth Games and Olympic teams have built strong and meaningful relationships with local communities during past campaigns, such as the disadvantaged Mangueira Community in Rio de Janeiro and the Squamish people in Vancouver.