Brought to you by Chorus Fibre, we are proud to introduce the New Zealand Secondary School Esports Championships. More than a tournament, NZSS Esports is a chance to connect with students from across the country, build teamwork, develop skills, and for some, begin their journey toward joining the E Blacks, New Zealand’s national esports team.
Two Things You Need to Know
- The competition kicks off online in Term 2 on Monday, 28 April 2025.
- The top schools will advance to the LAN National Championship from September 22nd to 26th. Picture a traditional sports week, but for esports: intense matches, camaraderie, and a weekend where champions rise.
Whether you’re a school with an established esports programme or just getting started, there’s never been a better time to jump in. Esports is growing globally, and this championship provides a competitive yet fun environment for students to experience it firsthand.
2025 Game Titles: Pathways and Purpose
Marvel Rivals:
Pathway: Introduction to esportsWhile the other games provide clear pathways, Marvel Rivals is all about giving students a taste of competitive esports and letting them enjoy what’s currently the hottest title in the scene.
Mobile Legends:
Bang Bang (MLBB)
Pathway: Featured in world championships
MLBB presents a real opportunity for team players to represent New Zealand on the international stage. Teams competing in MLBB could even earn the chance to become part of the E Blacks this year.
Trackmania
Pathway: Introduction to sim racingTrackmania offers a fun and accessible way for students to experience competitive racing, while also acting as a stepping stone to more advanced titles like Assetto Corsa Competizione, which was an official title in the Global Esports Federation (GEF) in 2024.
EAFC25:
Pathway: Introduction to eFootballeFootball is a prominent part of international competitions like the International Esports Federation (IESF), and this is where New Zealand’s future stars can hone their skills.
Why Participate?
The New Zealand Secondary School Esports Championships is about building pathways for students beyond just a competition.
Competing in titles like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) and EAFC25 could lead to something far bigger. These games are featured in prestigious global competitions like the International Esports Federation (IESF) and the Global Esports Federation (GEF) events. This is your chance to represent New Zealand on the international stage as an E Black, our national esports team. For students dreaming of a professional esports career, this is where it all begins.
The best teams from across the country coming together for an electric week of competition, connection, and celebration. The LAN National Championship will take place September 22nd to 26th, giving students the chance to experience the thrill of live esports, just like a school sports tournament but on an entirely new level.
This isn’t just about gaming – it’s about school pride, teamwork, and creating lifelong memories. The atmosphere will be unforgettable as students meet their peers, compete head-to-head, and witness champions crowned in an in-person setting. For many, this will be the highlight of the year and the moment they experience the magic of esports.
Whether your students are seasoned competitors or brand new to esports, this championship offers something for everyone. From the fun and accessibility of Marvel Rivals to the strategic teamwork required in Mobile Legends, there’s a game for every type of player. This is about giving students a platform to grow, connect, and challenge themselves, all while having a blast.
How to Get Involved
Register Your School
Head to NZSS Esports
to sign up today.
Confirm Your Teams
Finalise your teams
before April 4th, 2025.
Compete in Term 2
Battle it out in the online rounds and aim for the top spots to qualify for the Nationals.