The Badminton World Federation (BWF) can confirm that the BARFOOT & THOMPSON New Zealand Open 2020 to be held 28 April to 3 May has been suspended.

The escalation of the COVID-19 outbreak globally has led BWF and Badminton New Zealand, in close consultation and consensus with relevant tournament partners, to suspend and postpone the event.

The health, safety and wellbeing of all athletes, their entourage, officials and the greater badminton community remains the top concern for all.

Extreme travel and quarantine restrictions in place globally has also contributed to the suspension.

Badminton New Zealand said the decision is in keeping with advice from the New Zealand Government to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

BWF accepts that all relevant health, safety and logistical risks have been considered by tournament organisers and Badminton New Zealand in reaching this decision.

The tournament is a Super 300 event on the HSBC BWF World Tour.