Culver City to host New Zealand Olympic Team in 2028

Fans of New Zealand will have a spot in Los Angeles to root on for their athletes during the 2028 Olympic Summer Games as the New Zealand Olympic Committee is nearly a deal with Culver City to have the city serve as its home base.

The Culver City Council website says the event will include a New Zealand themed Fan Zone throughout Town Plaza, including The Culver Steps, for the duration of the Olympics. The Hospitality House and Fan Zone would be open and free to the public.

While the City Council did not vote on approving the sponsorship, it approved directing staff to begin work with the City Council Olympic subcommittee and New Zealand’s team to draft a Memorandum of Understanding, which would return to a future meeting for approval.

Within Town Plaza, one of New Zealand’s ideas is to construct a series of pavilions along the walkways where displays or activities relating to New Zealand culture, tourism and trade. Other ideas include a possible New Zealand Film Festival at the Culver Theater or music concerts.

New Zealand’s intent is a series of community activation, outreach and events to take place over the next four years, including partnering with schools and other local organizations.

The council also requested that staff look to provide activation and space for other countries that may be interested in using Culver City as a base for the Games. Staff estimates that hosting New Zealand’s hospitality house would result in a cost to the City’s General Fund of $527,763.