Thirty years ago, in the Rotorua District Council staff cafeteria, the concept of an inter-council sports event was hatched.

Trialled for a few years as a Bay of Plenty-wide tournament, in 1999 the first Aotearoa Inter-Council Sports Tournament took place.

This weekend, over 400 players and supporters from 18 councils across the North Island will compete for bragging rights on Rugby Park and Rex Morpeth Park in Whakatāne to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the tournament.

Now refined to football, a novelty event and touch in order to keep everyone together in one location, the tournament has moved around the country making friendships, rivalries and memories over the years.

The simple format of the tournament allows any council in New Zealand to host, keep it affordable and encourages participation.

It’s the second time the competition has been hosted in Whakatāne. This year staff from Ōpōtiki District Council, Whakatāne District Council and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council have combined to organise the event.

“It’s a small committee of people who have pulled together a great programme, sought sponsorship and worked out the logistics. They’ve done a great job,” said Whakatāne council’s general manager people and partnerships Emlyn Hatch.

Mr Hatch, who is one of four members of the council’s executive team playing this weekend, said an influx of 400 people to the district was a great shoulder-season bump for accommodation and hospitality providers.

“At a time when there is so much change across local government, this event is a great opportunity to come together and share in sporting spirit and collegiality.”