NZ and Australia Ice Hockey Historic Shift to Americas Region
Published Mon 30 Sep 2024
New Zealand and Australia Ice Hockey Federations Announce Historic Shift to Americas Region
The New Zealand Ice Hockey Federation and Ice Hockey Australia are proud to announce a historic change in their regional affiliation with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). Following a vote by the IIHF Council and Member National Associations at the 2024 Semi-Annual Congress, both New Zealand and Australia’s bid to transfer from the Asia region to the Americas region has been successfully approved.
This significant development enhances the global standing of both nations and opens up exciting new opportunities for growth and development. The move is set to further strengthen the cooperative relationship between New Zealand and Australia, aligning their shared vision for ice hockey development under the guidance of IIHF, USA Hockey, Hockey Canada, and other members of the Americas region, including Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Puerto Rico, and Colombia.
Both federations extend their gratitude to the Asia-Oceania Region and its members for their many years of support and collaboration.
“It’s an exciting time for both countries as we explore new initiatives within the Americas and our extended hockey family. Now, the real work begins as we strive to contribute to the global growth of the sport,” said Andy Mills, President of the New Zealand Ice Hockey Federation.
“This is a landmark opportunity for our organisation, one that will be remembered as a defining moment in our sport's history. We extend our thanks to the IIHF Council and Member Nations for supporting this transition to create the Americas and Oceania Region,” added Adam Woolnough, General Manager of Ice Hockey Australia.
“As IIHF VP of the America’s I am very excited to see New Zealand and Australia join the already strong and developing countries of the Americas. Under the leadership of USA Hockey, IIHF, and Hockey Canada, there is a huge potential to grow the game of hockey in our region of the world,” said Bob Nicholson, IIHF Council, Vice-President.
