New Zealand’s women produced a determined and competitive performance in the final of the 2026 VICTOR Oceania Women’s Team Championships, finishing runners-up to Australia in a 4–1 result in Auckland.
Both teams entered the final unbeaten in the group stage, setting the stage for an exciting showdown.
Shaunna Li Sets the Tone
Shaunna Li opened the final with confidence and composure, delivering a convincing win in her rematch against Tiffany Ho, 21–13, 21–19. Shaunna’s performance put New Zealand ahead early and set a strong tone for the tie.
Amy Wang Shows Fight
In the second singles, Amy Wang faced Australia’s Faye Huo. Amy battled hard and stayed competitive throughout, but Australia managed to close out the match to level the tie at 1–1.
Promising Start from Zhao
Josephine Zhao showed great promise in her singles encounter, leading in both games at different stages. Despite her strong starts and aggressive play, Australia fought back to secure the match and take a 2–1 lead.
Ting / Zhou Push Olympian Pair
The doubles clash provided one of the most thrilling moments of the night. Scratch pair Natalie Ting and Camellia Zhou took on Olympian Gronya Somerville and partner Faye Huo in a high-quality three-game battle.
The Kiwi pair pushed the Australians all the way, with momentum swinging back and forth and the crowd fully engaged. Despite the spirited effort, Australia edged ahead to claim the third point and secure qualification for the Uber Cup.
Li / Lin Close Out the Tie
Shaunna Li returned to court alongside Laura Lin for the final doubles match, facing Angela Yu and Jesslyn Carrisia. The New Zealand pair fought strongly and looked to add another point to the tally, but Australia narrowly edged the contest to complete the 4–1 result.
While the titles remained with Australia, New Zealand’s women demonstrated composure, competitiveness, and belief throughout the Championships. With a blend of experience and emerging talent, the Uber Cup team showed encouraging signs for the future.
Badminton New Zealand is extremely proud of the effort shown by both the men’s and women’s teams. Competing at this level on home soil is a privilege, and the performances throughout the week highlight the continued growth of New Zealand badminton.
Onwards and upwards.
Cover Photo: Badminton Oceania / Paul Foxall
New Zealand’s men delivered a spirited performance in the final of the 2026 VICTOR Oceania Men’s Team Championships in Auckland, ultimately falling 4–1 to defending champions Australia.
After both teams progressed through the group stage undefeated, the final promised to be a tightly contested battle — and it did not disappoint.
Edward Lau Sets the Tone
Edward Lau stepped onto court first and immediately set the scene by putting the first point on the board for New Zealand. After a shaky start, Edward settled into the match and showed composure under pressure, defeating Jack Yu in three games, 16–21, 21–18, 21–18.
The early lead gave New Zealand strong momentum heading into the doubles.
Deloy / Jeffrey Deliver a Nail-Biter
Raphael Deloy and Adam Jeffrey produced one of the most dramatic matches of the night. Facing Andika Ramadiansyah and Frederick Zhao, the Kiwi pair found themselves trailing late in the third game before mounting a stunning comeback, winning six consecutive points to level the score at 18-all.
From there, it was neck-and-neck. Eventually, Australia edged ahead 23–21 to level the tie at 1–1.
Gruelling Singles Battle
Chris Benzie then took to court in what became a physically demanding singles encounter. Both players pushed their limits in a high-intensity battle, with long rallies and relentless pressure from both sides. It was a strong effort from Benzie, but Australia managed to gain the upper hand to take a 2–1 lead.
Doubles Rematch Seals the Tie
With the score at 2–1, Dylan Soedjasa returned to court for a crucial men’s doubles clash — a rematch of sorts from his individual finals campaign — this time partnering Vincent Tao. The Kiwi pair fought hard in an attempt to level the tie, but Australia’s combination proved strong, closing the match 21–18, 21–17 and securing the decisive third point.
Cheng Fights Until the End
Although the tie was sealed, Ricky Cheng continued to show tremendous fighting spirit in the final match against Oceania champion Shrey Dhand. Cheng pushed hard and kept the pressure on, but Dhand eventually closed the contest 23–21, 21–17 to complete the 4–1 result.
While the outcome did not fall New Zealand’s way, the men demonstrated resilience and fight throughout the campaign.
Badminton New Zealand is incredibly proud of the Thomas Cup team and the way they represented the country on home soil.
Cover Photo: Badminton Oceania / Paul Foxall
New Zealand’s para badminton team is gaining invaluable experience at the World Championships in Bahrain, with Head Coach Duncan Yeow highlighting both the on-court growth and off-court connections as key takeaways from the event so far.
For many of the players, this is their first taste of competition at a Para Badminton World Championships, with Thomas being the only member of the squad who has previously competed at this level. According to Yeow, the exposure has been invaluable.
“Great exposure for the players. Only Thomas has played in a World Championships before,” he shared.
As expected, there were early nerves when the team first took to the courts. However, those nerves quickly settled once competition got underway.
“The players were excited and a bit nervous in the beginning but settled down quickly after their first game,” Yeow said.
Beyond results, one of the standout elements has been the strong sense of unity within the team. The players have supported one another throughout the competition and embraced the wider para badminton community.
“The players remained united, supportive of each other and very quickly made new friends in the para event.”
A major highlight came from Rishikesh Venu, who secured his first-ever SL3 singles win at a Para World Championships. Rishi defeated Bulgaria’s Dimitar Pavlov in straight games, 22–20, 21–12 — a moment that lifted the entire team.
“Rishi won his first-ever SL3 singles Para World Championships game. He was so happy and brought great joy and happiness to the team. It lifted the team spirit to do well in our coming games,” Yeow reflected.
Looking ahead, Yeow believes this group has significant potential for future growth and success on the world stage.
“This team of young para players has so much potential for future growth and to go further in future World Championships events.”
The opportunity to compete alongside and observe the world’s best para badminton players has also been a valuable learning experience.
“It’s a great experience and exciting for the players to meet and watch the world’s best para badminton players in action. There’s plenty to take away from this event.”
Off the court, the overall organisation of the Championships has helped enhance the players’ experience in Bahrain.
“The organisation of the accommodation, transport, food, venue and hall facilities has been top class, and this has added to the experience for the players.”
As the Championships continue, the New Zealand team carries forward not just results, but confidence, connection, and motivation - foundations that will support their development well beyond this event.
The VICTOR Oceania Championships 2026 got off to an exciting start at Badminton North Harbour, with plenty of action across the early rounds. From an all-New Zealand battle to a near upset against a top Australian seed, Day 1 delivered fast rallies, big moments, and a glimpse of the depth coming through the region.
Day 1 Highlights
An all-Kiwi clash headlined the men’s singles, with Edward Lau and Dan McMillan meeting early in the draw. Teammates off court, the pair brought intensity on court, showing sharp net play and powerful attacking rallies that kept spectators engaged throughout. Edward's consistency and attacking momentum closed out the match in two straight sets.
Score: 21–10, 21–17
One of the standout performances of the day came from 15-year-old Wenxuan Li, who came close to a big upset against Australia’s number two seed Jack Yu. After dropping the opening game, Wenxuan responded with confidence and composure to take the second. Jack regrouped in the decider to move through, but Wenxuan’s performance left a strong impression.
Score: 13–21, 21–14, 8–21
What’s Coming Up For Day 2
The championships continue tomorrow as players return to court for the next round of matches. With Mixed Doubles to start and followed by the later rounds of Men's Singles, Women's Singles, Men's Doubles and Women's doubles. It's going to be another exciting day at the Badminton North Harbour Stadium.
Event: VICTOR Oceania Individual Championships
Dates: 8-12 February 2026
Location: Badminton North Harbour
47 Bond Crescent, Forrest Hill, North Shore 0620, Auckland
Link: Full schedule and results
Stream: Court 1 | Court 2
Photos by: Badminton Oceania / Paul Foxall
As New Zealand’s para badminton athletes prepare for the 2026 BWF Para Badminton World Championships in Bahrain, their journey reflects more than just performances on court. Behind every qualification, every training session, and every opportunity to compete internationally is a strong network of support - beginning with Badminton Oceania, and extending to families, friends, coaches, and communities who help these athletes thrive.
Supported by Badminton Oceania
For New Zealand’s para badminton players, the pathway to the World Championships has been shaped by Badminton Oceania’s commitment to athlete development. Through structured training camps, coaching support, and funding pathways, athletes have been given the opportunity to compete internationally, gain valuable experience, and meet qualification requirements for the sport’s biggest events.
In the lead-up to Bahrain, the athletes are partaking in a Badminton Oceania–hosted training camp in Auckland, where they will train alongside coaches and spar with fellow players. These camps not only provide technical preparation but also create an environment where athletes can learn from one another and build confidence heading into major competition.
As Andrew Fairweather shared:
“The help that Badminton Oceania has given me has been such a great support. The camps and funding have given me opportunities to go overseas and qualify for the World Championships, as well as helping me step up and improve my game.”
This support has been vital in ensuring New Zealand’s para athletes are able to prepare at a level that matches the demands of the world stage.
The Power of Personal Support
While organisational support lays the foundation, athletes are quick to acknowledge that success doesn’t happen without the people who support them away from the court. Family, friends, coaches, and training partners play a crucial role in keeping athletes grounded during the intense focus that elite sport demands.
For Maia Read, family has been central to her journey:
“My mum — she’s done everything for me that she possibly can. I wouldn’t be here without her.”
Andrew Fairweather also highlighted the importance of those closest to him:
“My Dad and Mum. Sherry, Michael and Ken for coaching me and always being there when I need them.”
These support systems help athletes manage the highs and lows of competition, balancing training commitments with everyday life.
Community and Connection
Beyond family, the wider badminton community has provided guidance, motivation, and connection. Coaches, teammates, and friends help create an environment where athletes can stay focused while still enjoying the journey.
Rishikesh Venu reflected on the people who have shaped his development:
“My coaches Dan McMillan and Jonathan Curtin, and everyone who has supported me along the way.”
Amy Dunn has tied these perfectly.
"Badminton Oceania and Badminton New Zealand of course. Wellington North Badminton, my friends and colleagues who have supported me on this journey, and all the players, officials and everyone else in between who has shaped my badminton journey in some way, big or small, over the years."
For many athletes, these relationships are essential - offering encouragement during challenging periods and celebrating milestones together.
More Than Results
As the New Zealand para badminton team prepares for Bahrain, their journey serves as a reminder that success at the World Championships is built on more than talent alone. It is the result of dedicated organisational support, strong personal networks, and a shared commitment to growth.
With Badminton Oceania’s continued backing and the unwavering support of family and friends, New Zealand’s para badminton athletes head to the World Championships not just as competitors, but as a connected and supported team - ready to represent their country on the world stage.
For Shaunna Li, success isn’t limited to one area of life. Whether she’s competing on the badminton court, running her own business, or building experience in the corporate world, balance has become a key part of how she approaches everything she does.
On court, Shaunna has firmly established herself as one of New Zealand’s leading players. She is a two-time Oceania Women’s Singles Champion (2023 and 2025) and the reigning New Zealand National Champion in both Women’s Singles and Mixed Doubles. Across her career, Shaunna is also a 14-time New Zealand National Title holder, with titles spanning Women’s Singles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. Her results reflect years of discipline, consistency, and a strong competitive mindset.
Away from badminton, Shaunna brings that same focus into her professional life. She runs her own business, Dress for Less, and recently completed an internship at EY, gaining valuable experience outside of sport. Rather than seeing these commitments as separate, Shaunna believes the skills she’s developed in each area complement one another.
“From badminton, I’ve learned discipline and hard work. When you put in the work, you get results,” she explains. “Teamwork and communication are also huge. Working with people of different ages and backgrounds really helps in the corporate world.”
At the same time, the skills she’s gained off court have strengthened how she approaches badminton. “Having to think about strategy off court helps how I think in badminton,” she says. “Problem solving applies to both, whether it’s solving an issue at work or figuring out how to play an opponent on the day.”
Finding balance, however, hasn’t always been straightforward. One of the biggest lessons Shaunna has learned over time is the importance of prioritising and accepting that perfection isn’t always possible.
“It’s important to know when to do the right things and learning how to prioritise,” she reflects. “It’s not about being perfect, it’s about finding the best way to balance things.”
That balance also means making time for life beyond work and sport. “I’ve learned how important it is to make time for yourself,” she says. “Spending time with friends and family, or even small things like finding time to eat dinner, those things can’t just drop down the priority list because of work.”
For younger athletes trying to juggle sport alongside education or work, Shaunna’s advice is refreshingly honest. “I feel like I need to message myself,” she laughs. “If you enjoy it, keep doing it. As long as you enjoy both things and have the drive, you can do both at once. Enjoy what you’re doing and think about what’s important to you.”
So what keeps her motivated to push herself across so many areas of life? For Shaunna, it comes down to enjoyment and a sense of achievement. “Winning motivates me, achieving something,” she says. “But enjoyment is a big part of it too. I wouldn’t do something I don’t enjoy. That sense of accomplishment is what keeps me going.”
As Shaunna continues to compete at the highest level while building her career beyond badminton, her journey highlights the importance of balance, self-awareness, and staying connected to what truly matters. Through smart prioritisation, discipline, and enjoyment in both sport and work, she continues to show that success can be built across multiple areas of life. We look forward to seeing Shaunna bring her experience, leadership, and drive into the upcoming VICTOR Oceania Individual and Team Championships, and to following the next chapter of her journey both on and off the court.
Event: VICTOR Oceania Individual Championships
Dates: 8-12 February 2026
Location: Badminton North Harbour
47 Bond Crescent, Forrest Hill, North Shore 0620, Auckland
Link: Full schedule and results
Event: VICTOR Oceania Men’s & Women’s Team Championships
Dates: 13-15 February 2026
Location: Badminton North Harbour
47 Bond Crescent, Forrest Hill, North Shore 0620, Auckland
Link: Full schedule and results