Campaign calling for athletes to inspire nation at Rio 2016 launched by New Zealand Olympic Committee

A One Year To Go inspiration campaign has been launched by the New Zealand Olympic Committee ©NZOC

A "Rio 2016 Be the Inspiration campaign" has been launched by the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) to coincide with One Year To Go celebrations until the Olympic Games.

Billed as a "powerful representation of the athletes journey from New Zealand to the Olympic Games in Rio", the campaign is centred around an online digital hub.

As well as featuring words of inspiration and messages of good luck from New Zealanders both at home and overseas, the hub will also showcase rare footage and video clips of some of the country's best Olympic successes throughout history.

Videos of athletes preparing for the Games will also be included, while New Zealanders who share their messages in the Hub will go in the draw to win a trip for two to the Olympic Games next August.

Athletes will also interact with the public on social media, using the campaign hashtag #BetheInspiration and benefiting from the well-wishes of New Zealanders, shared through the Inspiration Hub.

“New Zealand athletes are inspired by this country's land and people. Equally, New Zealanders themselves are inspired by the significant achievements of our athletes," said NZOC chief executive Kereyn Smith.

"They are at the heart of our proud sporting culture.

“The Inspiration Hub is where New Zealanders’ messages of support and the stories of our proud Olympic history come together.

“We look forward to hosting two lucky New Zealanders in Rio, too."

New Zealanders will also see the campaign journey featured in Olympic Team’s social media and digital content, as well as at sporting events, in the campaigns of Olympic partners and at the Athletes' Village in Rio.

Beginning with Te Mahutonga - the Southern Cross - in the night sky, the hub will visually represent a journey seeing athletes travel across New Zealand’s majestic landscape to the Brazilian city, supported and inspired by their nation.

This comes as the Oceanic country seeks to improve on 15th place on the medals table at London 2012, where six golds were won in a 13 medal haul.

An e-book telling the full story of the campaign and the journey to be taken by athletes can be accessed here.