In March this year, ILT Stadium was filled with the sharp, rhythmic beat of boots stomping perfectly in time. 37 teams, along with their officials, descended on Invercargill for the National Marching Championships, bringing people from across the motu to compete and connect.
This is a sport with a proud history of inclusion, offering a place for every age group. This year’s Nationals saw Under 13s, Under 18s, Seniors and Masters vying for various titles. Younger marchers in the Introductory and Open Free Choice grades also played a special role, proudly marching as flag bearers.
Marching Southland’s Publicity and Promotion Officer Sheree Hall said the event was the culmination of many months of work for the organising committee.
“We’d had a practice run with the South Island Champs the season before, which meant we’d already ironed out the creases and everyone knew their role. They’re an incredible bunch of people who worked so hard in the lead‑up to the champs,” said Sheree.
“The whole weekend really did exceed our expectations. The feedback has been fantastic — and you know you’ve nailed it when there are no complaints from the board,” she said.
The success was due in part to the outstanding host venue.
“Everyone really enjoyed ILT Stadium Southland — it’s a great facility with plenty of capacity for spectators. It was wonderful to see so many people come in to watch, some for the first time.”
For Sheree, this year was especially meaningful. Back in 2017, while attending the Multicultural Food Festival, she and her daughter wandered into the velodrome, where Marching Southland was hosting the New Zealand Marching Championships. Her daughter stopped to watch the display, and that moment sparked an interest that eventually led to her to lace up her own boots. In 2025, she became part of a championship winning team.
The 2025 event had more spectator capacity than ever and was free to enter thanks to ILT’s generous funding support.
“We’re incredibly grateful to ILT for their support, it meant there was no cost for people to come along and experience the excitement. Who knows, it may have been the moment that inspires the next generation of marchers,” Sheree said.
The weekend ended on a high with local teams Hokonui storming to victory in both the Under 13 and Under 18 grades, securing back‑to‑back titles for the latter, and earning a rare 13/13 Caliper Award.
The 2025 Nationals will be remembered as one of the biggest and best – that will keep Southland marching forward for years to come.
