Jason GunnA born and bred Cantabrian, Jason has been a fixture on television screen across New Zealand for decades starring in everything from The Son of a Gunn Show to Wheel of Fortune. Jason will be bringing his vibrant personality throughout the Games in December, in support of all the athletes competing in Christchurch, their whānau and clubs.
National Summer Games Ambassadors
Dylan SchmidtAs well as being a World Champion and Olympics Medallist, Dylan was Special Olympics New Zealand's first official ambassador and has had a strong connection with people with intellectual disabilities since an early age, through his mother Jen, who has been working in the intellectual disability sector for most of her life.
Tiaan WhelptonNew Zealand's fastest man graduated from the University of Canterbury as lives and trains in Christchurch. Tiaan is passionate about the role sport and athletics can play in a person's life and is "super excited" to be alongside the action in December, supporting all our National Summer Games Athletes.
Mark SorensonGrowing up in the Hutt Valley, Mark developed a lifelong passion for softball, beginning at age five. He represented New Zealand's Black Sox for 20 years, earning five World Titles and two silver medals. Later, as Head Coach (2013–2023), he led the team to another World Title and a silver medal. Inducted into multiple Halls of Fame, he’s also been actively involved in Special Olympics through his son, Grayson.
Scott BarrettAll Black captain and Crusaders legend, Barrett “can’t wait” to welcome the National Summer Games to his home town and see all the amazing athletes in action. Scott has a personal connection to Special Olympics in New Zealand with his sister Zara an athlete in the North Taranaki club.
Sammie MaxwellSammie, an Olympic Cyclist, is passionate about supporting NSG because sport has given her more than success, it’s given her community. From tough training sessions to unforgettable post-ride memories, it’s the people who make it special to her. She’s dedicated to building an inclusive, supportive space where everyone can experience the joy and connection that sport brings.