Two Wānaka athletes will lead the New Zealand Team into the opening ceremony at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games this morning (February 7), after snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott and freeski athlete Ben Barclay were named flag bearers.

The pair were announced as Ngā Pou Hāpai Tāne and Wahine during a special team gathering at New Zealand Lodge in Livigno, led by NZ Team chef de mission Marty Toomey (Wānaka) and attended by teammates, friends and whānau.

“I feel very honoured to be selected as flag bearer, this is incredibly special,” Zoi said.

“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 … I’m proud to be sharing this moment with him.”

Ben said wearing the kākahu was a powerful experience.

“It’s an honour to wear the kākahu and be chosen as a flag bearer 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.”

NZ Team Chef de Mission, Marty Toomey presented the kākahu (cloaks) to Zoi and Ben.

“These two are not only incredible athletes, but incredible human beings,” he said.

“Both Zoi and Ben embody the leadership qualities we value in the New Zealand team. They work hard, they stay grounded and they lift the people around them.”

Marty presented Zoi with Te Hono Ki Matariki, while Ben received Aroha Atu Aroha Mai.

The opening ceremony for the 2026 Olympic Games takes place today (February 7) at 8am (NZT).

NZ Team Winter Games schedule.

PHOTO: Supplied