SPORTS AT BURNSIDE HIGH SCHOOL

Welcome from the SPORTS Department

HĀKINAKINA


The Sports Department along with staff, coaches, managers and parents all devote time, energy and expertise to ensure that BHS students have many exciting sport codes to choose from. There are currently 30 plus sports on offer across a range of different grades.


Regardless of whether the goal is to compete, learn new skills, make friends or just have fun, there is definitely something for everyone. Our students compete with distinction locally and nationally. We encourage and support both participation- orientated athletes and elite athletes.


We hope you will take advantage of the many opportunities that the Burnside High School Sports Programme provides and we look forward to helping you achieve your sporting goals.


View the BHS Sports Handbook

CHOOSE YOUR SPORT

Each sport has different costs, venues and playing days. Just pick yours and register online. Check the daily notices for registration dates, once you are signed up, we will be in touch about trials and teams.

GET PERMISSION / PAY

Representing Burnside High comes with a few rules: you will need to sign a code of conduct, stick to your commitments and communicate early. We operate a "no pay, no play" policy, so fees are due at registration unless prior arrangements have been made.

PLAY

Get out there and have fun.

If you are not sure what sport is for you email the Sports Department and we can help.

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 Celebrate our Sporting Success: Sport Award Nominations Are Open!

We love celebrating hard work and achievements in sport. From local weekly competitions to representing New Zealand, your dedication deserves to be recognised.

We are encouraging all students and whānau to look through our tiered awards system and get your applications in.

What are the Awards? 

  • Sport Colours: Recognises students (typically Years 11–13) performing to a high standard in top-division senior teams. Students self-apply in Term 2 or 3.

  • Principal’s Distinction Awards: Celebrates either elite representation (Canterbury A or National level) or long-term service (3+ years in a top senior team, or exceptional coaching/admin work).

  • NZSS Title & NZ Roll of Honour: Awarded to those who place in the top three at a NZ Championship or gain selection into a New Zealand National Team.

  • Te Tohu o te Taumata Hākinakina (Sport Honours): Our pinnacle "All-Round" award for Years 11–13. This requires a mix of elite performance, logged sports service (coaching, refereeing, etc.) and outstanding character. Students self-apply.

For a full description view the Burnside HS Sport Recognition document.

How to Apply: Take Ownership! 

From 2026 onwards, students must self-nominate to be eligible for Sport Colours and Sport Honours. While parents, staff and coaches can also submit nominations, we highly recommend that students take the lead and fill out their own forms so they don’t miss out.

Steps to Nominate:

  1. Gather your evidence. Note down your awards, placings, team selections and any service hours/coaching roles.
  2. Submit your application using the application form.
  3. Submit before the deadline, nominations close on the last day of Term 3.

Please note: Nominations are reviewed by the Awards Committee. If you have any questions or want to appeal a decision, contact us at sport@burnside.school.nz.

Share Your Photos and Stories! 

We want to feature your successes in our school Bulletin and on social media. Please send your sports photos and achievement stories directly to the Sports Department.

Sport News

Main School Website