Brethren from the Ecclesiastical District of New Zealand South had a great time together during the INC Unity Games, fortifying their bond and love of brotherhood. The activity was held at Main Power Stadium Indoor Centre, Coldstream Road, Rangiora, New Zealand on April 6, 2026.

A total of 13 teams named after the local congregations and group worship services (GWS) competed: Ashburton, Christchurch, Cromwell, Dunedin, Fitzgerald, Halswell, Invercargill, Invercargill South, Queenstown, Riccarton, and Timaru GWS. Meanwhile, the two other teams were a merge of players from three GWS—Nelson, Bleinheim, and West Coast—and Christchurch East Congregation with those of Waikari GWS.

The program began with a parade of colors, after which was a prayer led by Brother Dante Ariola Jr., district secretary, and the opening remarks by Brother Uziel Bongares, district supervising minister. Brother Bunny Jyn Raagas, district Christian Family Organizations overseer, led the players’ taking oath of sportsmanship.

Except for chess and darts, all the other games were subdivided into categories. Basketball was played based on age: 12-17, 18-34, and 35 above, men’s and women’s for volleyball, bowling, and badminton, the latter also with singles and doubles.

“It gives the brethren an opportunity to express love, cooperation, and brotherhood in a joyful way that uplifts the spirit, removes stress, and reminds each one that serving God pleases Him,” Brother Bongares said.

Invercargill South was declared the overall champion. Second in line was Fitzgerald, third were Ashburton-Timaru and Halswell—tied for both having four wins (two as champion, one as 1st runner-up, and another one as 2nd runner-up).

After the awarding ceremony, Brother Marco Mangune, district edification overseer, concluded the activity with a prayer.

“I’ve traveled eight hours straight but it’s all worth it, seeing the intense love of the brethren, it makes everyone hyped up with excitement,” said Patricia Redoña from Invercargill South Congregation.

“I feel flattered seeing all the brethren united and participating in these activities,” said Alessandra Louise Vinson from Cromwell Congregation. “It reminds me that serving God is something we do together—with unity, joy, and love,” said Leonardo Bernido from the same congregation.

“Just being here today seeing everyone showed up, I really feel the zeal of faith of the brethren in supporting one another,” said Dianne Lorido from Christchurch Congregation.