There is an air of excitement at New Zealand HQ tonight in Glasgow as more than two hundred team members prepare to march into Glasgows Celtic Park stadium to celebrate the Opening of the XX Commonwealth Games.
Wearing traditional black merino with white trim and a heart-rimu badge inlaid with the Southern Cross and puhoro design the team gathered behind flag bearer Valerie Adams.
Preparing for his second Commonwealth Games, weightlifter Stanislav Chalaev said he was excited. I cant wait to walk into the incredible atmosphere and know that the games are finally here.
Adams said she was still revelling in the excitement of last night and couldnt wait to get into the stadium. Im so honoured to be leading the team and cant wait to hear the roar of the crowd when we march in. Its just so exciting and Im really proud.
Adams will wear a taonga gifted to her by the team last night. A valuable pendant carved with the same puhoro design worn by the athletes. The design symbolises speed, dexterity, commitment and perseverance.
The team will look forward to an especially athlete-focussed event tonight with special seating allocated in the centre of the stadium.
Chef de Mission Rob Waddell said he was delighted athletes will come first tonight. Its going to be a Scottish spectacular, he said, acknowledging he was particularly looking forward to Rod Stewards performance. The fact the athletes can sit, relax and enjoy the ceremony and entertainment is a huge positive. Were really looking forward to it.
Some athletes, including Adams, will march but not stay for the full ceremony. The option for athletes to leave after the march has been provided by the organising committee and means more athletes can tailor their experience to meet their performance needs.
New Zealand will enter the stadium 14th. The order is by region and then alphabetically. Oceania follows Asia, being the order the Commonwealth Games baton toured the 71 countries Commonwealth.
The Opening Ceremony will be an outstanding experience for athletes but once it is over the serious business of competition gets underway.
Chalaev, who competes for the first time in Glasgow on 30th July reflects the thoughts of the team. All the preparation and hard work comes down to now.
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