The first Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) Tournament was held in Wellington on 11 April 2026 at the Akau Tangi Sports Center, showcasing “Arnis” (Filipino Stick fighting) sparring. The tournament was organized by the Philippine Martial Arts Association in New Zealand (PHILMAA NZ), in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy in Wellington and the organizers of the Pistang Pilipino 2026.

Attracting FMA practitioners from all over Wellington, the tournament featured fast-paced Arnis action and skills, as well as camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participants. The tournament is a sneak peek into what will be the first National FMA Tournament in New Zealand this October, when the Pistang Pilipinas 2026 comes to Wellington during the long Labor Weekend.