NZOC delegation happy Delhi on track

A New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) delegation has returned from New Delhi, India, confident the Commonwealth Games are on track.

New Zealand chef de mission Dave Currie said organisers had made significant progress across all areas for the Games in October.

A previous site visit had revealed delays in construction and planning but also brought about a commitment from the Commonwealth Games Federation and organisers to get the Games back on track.

"I have returned from New Delhi positive," Currie said.

"There has been incredible progress made in some venues and the village will be of an extremely high quality. Plans for transport, competition management and accreditation are extensive.

"Having seen the progress made since October we are of the view that remaining construction and detailed planning will be completed satisfactorily."

Athlete security and safety remain the highest priority in New Delhi.

The New Zealand Government sent representatives to New Delhi for the recent hockey World Cup and the chefs de mission conference attended by Currie.

The latest visit gave the New Zealand delegation an indication of the level and style of security arrangements expected for the Games.

"The advice we're receiving is that within the current risk level, security was appropriate," Currie said.

"There are still six months to go and we'll continue to monitor the situation closely.

"We believe the Games are on track. Our next steps are to brief sports on our findings to ensure they and their athletes are prepared for the Games."

- NZPA