UC Claims Inaugural Esports Title as Apex Edition Launches

The inaugural NZ Esports Uni Series: Olympus Edition has concluded, marking an exciting milestone for tertiary esports in Aotearoa New Zealand and setting the stage for an even bigger second edition.

Delivered through the partnership between University and Tertiary Sport New Zealand (UTSNZ) and NZ Esports, the first-ever university esports series attracted 141 student participants from six tertiary institutions, with 14 teams competing in Valorant and 10 teams in Overwatch.

The competition showcased the growing strength of university esports across New Zealand. AUEC Purple (University of Auckland) claimed the Valorant title after an unbeaten campaign, while UC Anderdingus (University of Canterbury) dominated the Overwatch competition, finishing with a perfect 7-0 record.

Strong performances across both competitions saw the University of Canterbury crowned the inaugural NZ Esports Uni Series Champions, finishing first overall with 33 points. AUT and the University of Auckland shared second place on 24 points, followed by the University of Waikato (18), Victoria University of Wellington (6), and Massey University (0).

As part of the UTSNZ Tertiary Challenge Series, every student who participated also earned points for their institution towards the Tertiary Challenge Trophy. The University of Auckland's strong participation, with 54 competitors across the two tournaments, has seen it establish an early lead in the 2026 Challenge Trophy standings, highlighting the growing popularity and impact of esports within tertiary sport.

Building on Success

Following the outstanding success of the Olympus Edition, UTSNZ and NZ Esports are pleased to announce the NZ Esports Uni Series: Apex Edition, which will run from 13 July to 23 August 2026.

The Apex Edition expands the competition significantly, offering seven game titles:

• Valorant
• Overwatch
• Counter-Strike 2
• Rocket League
• NBA 2K
• eFootball
• Clash Royale

Students can compete in either a Social or Competitive division, with opportunities for both teams and individuals depending on the title. The competition remains completely free to enter and is open to all currently enrolled tertiary students, as well as graduates from the past two years.

Hosted entirely online, the series removes travel and venue barriers, allowing students from across New Zealand to represent their institutions from anywhere in the country. Weekly rounds will be played between 13 July and 23 August, with flexible scheduling designed around student commitments. Registrations close on 12 July.

Students can register directly through the NZ Esports tournament platform at play.nzesports.org.nz, either by forming a team or, for selected titles, entering as an individual. Campus esports clubs and student associations are encouraged to help coordinate entries, although any eligible student can register independently.

With increased participation, more game titles, and a brand-new competition platform, the NZ Esports Uni Series: Apex Edition promises to continue the rapid growth of tertiary esports in New Zealand while strengthening the UTSNZ Challenge Series as a modern, inclusive competition pathway.

For more information visit NZ Esports Uni Series - By NZ Esports, and for registrations visit  play.nzesports.org.nz