One of New Zealand's best hopes in Paris begins his bid for Olympic gold tonight

High jumper Hamish Kerr heads into qualifying having won the Diamond League events in London and Monaco last month.

Also in action at Stade de France are javelin thrower Tori Peeters and 800 metre runner James Preston.

After starting her campaign with heats wins in the K2 and K4 500 heats - Dame Lisa Carrington races in the K1 500 heats - as does New Zealand's other contender in the class, Aimee Fisher.

Later tonight - golfer Lydia Ko tees off her tournament, while there are medal chances in track cycling and sailing.

The women's team pursuit race in the semifinals - and Nacra class duo Erica Dawson and Micah Wilkinson are fourth heading into that medal race.

Three Kiwis also feature in tomorrow morning's women's pole vault final - set go at 4.30.