Since its inception in 2004, the Zespri AIMS Games have grown from 760 competitors representing 17 schools and four sporting codes, to the 2023 tournament which will welcome 11,733 competitors, representing 374 schools and 25 sporting codes. It is remarkable to see a concept that Tauranga locals had, evolve into an event that in 2019 had 2.3 per cent more athletes than the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Even with this outstanding growth, the Zespri AIMS Games continues to be largely delivered by Tauranga locals and is successfully hosted within the region using existing public sport and recreation facilities.

The 2023 Zespri AIMS Games will be held in Tauranga, September 2-8 2023.

Plenty of things are planned and SunLive will provide coverage throughout the week of the huge sporting event.

Just some of the things taking place include:

Saturday: AIMS kicks off with 3x3 basketball (QE2 centre), Futsal (Baypark) and Hip Hop (Baypark).

Sunday: Sailing (TYPBC), gymnastics (Argos) and cross country (Waipuna Park) are all on, as well as opening ceremonies (3pm and 7pm Baypark).

Monday: Pohiri to welcome international schools (8.30am, Tauranga Intermediate), canoe slalom (McLarens Falls), most main codes start

Tuesday: Sunrise Yoga for athletes and supporters (6.30am, Tay St), canoe sprint (Pilot Bay)

Wednesday: Late-night netball with markets and activations (Harbourside Courts)

Thursday: Late-night Rip Rugby with activations (Bay Oval)

Friday: Finals day

See some photos of last year's action below: