Going ‘loco’ for Moko
A big, bright new addition to Zespri AIMS Games, Mascot Moko, was a hit with participants at this year’s event
The scaly green friend was launched at the event opening and appeared around the grounds over the six days of competition.
The 22nd edition of the games was set to be the biggest yet, with 14,506 intermediate-age athletes from 467 schools competing across 27 sporting codes.
The newly created mascot was selected as part of a competition launched by AIMS Games late last year.
Inspired by a gecko, and designed from submission by Kieran John-Francke and Austin Garside, Moko is the new official ‘representative’ for AIMS 2026.
The football field was buzzing with excitement as Moko made his way through the green grass, the sounds of cheering filling the air.
As multiple teams were warming up for games, some missing their kicks as they turned to catch a glance at the newest talk of the town.
One kid even shouted after him “you’re my idol!”
Moko has been described as someone who ‘makes everyone smile.’
He is the first ever mascot to be at AIMS, after tournament organisers decided that it would be a fun addition to the games.
Moko interacted with players, joining in on their games and performing little dances. His presence helped to brighten the atmosphere and remind everyone to have fun.
A youngster watching his older sibling play football, raced up to Moko with pure joy and enthusiastically asked for a photo.
After the photo was taken, he raced after his mum and yelled “that was awesome!”
Some of the Positive Vibes team said that the addition of Moko to AIMS Games has helped kids with feelings of anxiety on the playing field and helping everyone to feel more relaxed.
AIMS Games is an annual sporting event that ran in 2026 from September 5 – 11.
