10:30 am today

UAE's Winter Olympic debut has a very Kiwi feel

From Nine To Noon, 10:30 am today
United Arab Emirates's flag bearer Piera Hudson parades during the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Cortina d'Ampezzo, northern Italy, on February 6, 2026. (Photo by Franck FIFE / AFP)

Photo: Franck FIFE / AFP

 Among the surprises of the Winter Olympics this year has been the debut of a team from the United Arab Emirates.

The small, desert country is fielding two athletes at these Games - including one born in New Zealand.

30-year-old Peira Hudson will compete this weekend and had the honour of being the flagbearer for the UAE during the opening ceremony.

Peira was born and raised here, and has competed for New Zealand in a number of international and national competitions - winning a number of top national titles.

She speaks to Kathryn about her connection to the UAE, her joy about being at the Olympics and the events she's competing in.

Piera Hudson from New Zealand in action during the FIS Giant Slalom, 2024, Cardrona

Piera Hudson from New Zealand in action during the FIS Giant Slalom, Cardrona. Photo: Iain McGregor / PHOTOSPORT