NZ First proposes new commission to regulate combat sports

RNZNZ HeraldThursday 15 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated

In this story Winston Peters, NZ First

Photo: NZ Herald (opens in new tab)

New Zealand First has announced plans to establish a statutory Combat Sports Commission to improve athlete safety and prevent criminal influence. The proposal follows coronial recommendations and aims to eliminate unsanctioned events. The New Zealand Mixed Martial Arts Federation has expressed support for the framework.

How they headlined it

First reported by RNZ, Thu 15 Oct, 3:15pm · 2 reports from 2 outlets over 20 hours
  1. RNZRNZ

    NZ First announces plan to overhaul combat sports regulations (opens in new tab)

  2. NZ HeraldNZ Herald

    Election 2026: NZMMAF backs Winston Peters’ Combat Sports Commission plan (opens in new tab)