Not your average sports tournament… this one included speed puzzling 🧩🔥
Earlier this month, PieceHouse was proud to sponsor the Speed Puzzle events at the 2026 Masters Games in Dunedin — the country’s largest annual multi-sport event. Each year, the Games bring together competitors from across New Zealand to compete in a wide range of sports, connect with like-minded people, and enjoy the atmosphere of friendly competition.
And yes — competitive puzzling is officially a sport.
Three Events. Hundreds of Competitors. Serious Speed.
Across the Games, three Speed Puzzle events were held:
Two 500-piece individual rounds featuring our designs Feast & Fizz and Alfresco
One 1000-piece team event with competitors tackling Family Tree
A huge congratulations to all medal winners and to everyone who took part. Putting yourself on the clock with hundreds of pieces in front of you is no small feat.
Why Artwork Matters in Competitive Puzzling
We were told that in previous years, the puzzle rounds hadn’t generated much excitement. Some competitors were hesitant about signing up again.
But when this year’s participants saw the PieceHouse designs being used, the response was different.
Because artwork matters.
Colour, composition and detail all influence how engaging a puzzle feels — especially in a competitive setting. A thoughtfully designed image doesn’t just look good; it elevates the entire experience.
Seeing strong turnout across all three days — and hearing how much competitors enjoyed the designs — was something we’re incredibly proud of.
(Excuse the small brag… but beautiful puzzles really do make a difference 😉)
A Celebration of Community
What makes the Masters Games special is the spirit behind it. Competitors travel from across the country to take part — some chasing medals, others simply there for the camaraderie.
Speed puzzling sits perfectly within that mix. It’s strategic, social, and surprisingly intense.
We’re grateful to have supported the 2026 Masters Games and to see puzzling continue to earn its place on the sporting stage.
Here’s to more puzzles on the sporting stage 🧩✨
Photo credit: Blake Armstrong Armstrong Photography NZ
