The Olympic Committee has named snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott and freeski athlete Ben Barclay as New Zealand's flagbearers at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
The pair were formally announced as Ngā Pou Hāpai Tāne and Wahine (male and female flagbearers) during a special team gathering at New Zealand Lodge in the Italian town of Livigno.
Sadowski-Synnott said she felt "very honoured" to be selected.
"To share this with Beano (Ben) who I've spent a lot of my career with, not only on my snowboard but off it too, is special. He's just an all-round great human being and I'm proud to be sharing this moment with him," she said.
"I just hope to lead the NZ Team in a way that can make everyone proud, it means a lot to me," she said.
Barclay echoed Sadowski-Synnott's feelings of pride.
"It's an honour to wear the kākahu (cloak) and be chosen as a flagbearer alongside such a good friend as Zoi. To lead the team into the opening ceremony is a privilege for both of us," he said.
"When the kākahu was put on our shoulders it gave me a bit of a shiver, it's an honour that not many people get to experience and to carry that forward throughout this Olympic experience will be incredible."
The flagbearers were selected by the team's chef de mission Marty Toomey, who considered past performances, leadership qualities, the ability to inspire teammates, and each athlete's competition preparation and performance.
He said both athletes reflected the spirit the team wanted to take into the games.
"These two are not only incredible athletes, but incredible human beings ... They work hard, they stay grounded and they lift the people around them.
"Ben represents resilience, commitment and genuine care for his teammates. He has earned deep respect across the team through his attitude, his professionalism and the way he supports others.
"Zoi has set new standards for New Zealand snow sports. Her consistency, her competitive courage and the way she carries herself make her a powerful example for every athlete here."
Sadowski-Synnott, Olympian #1384 had a full set of Olympic medals, having represented the NZ Team at PyeongChang 2018 where she won bronze in Big Air and at Beijing 2022 where she won gold in Slopestyle and silver in Big Air.
Barclay, Olympian #1520, represented the NZ Team at the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games in Freeski Slopestyle and Big Air, finishing tenth in Slopestyle, which stands as New Zealand's best result in the event.
New Zealand is set to be represented by 17 athletes at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, which run from 6-22 February.
The opening ceremony will be at 7.30am New Zealand time on Saturday.
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