High Performance Sport New Zealand appoints David White

High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ) has appointed former NZ Cricket Chief Executive, David White, as its new High Performance Director.

White will be responsible for leading HPSNZ, including setting strategic direction, managing investment to maximise performance on the world stage, and building strong relationships with National Sports Organisations (NSOs) to ensure they have the support to face the challenges of high performance sport and their athletes have the support required to be the best they can be.

White led NZ Cricket (NZC) for 11 years, where he oversaw financial growth, the increased focus on women and girl’s cricket, the introduction of a Māori strategy, as well as historic on-field achievements including the Black Caps winning the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021.

Most recently, White served as the Chief Executive of the International League T20 (ILT20) in the United Arab Emirates.

Sport NZ Group Chief Executive, Raelene Castle, says she has a deep respect for David and his experience across both the international and domestic sporting landscapes.

“I have worked alongside David in the sports sector for the last 20 years and have always had huge respect for him and his work.

“I am especially impressed by the growth that NZ Cricket saw under his leadership, including the establishment of the high performance structure which has seen consistent performances by the Black Caps and White Ferns over the last 15 years.

“David brings deep executive experience to HPSNZ and I’m looking forward to working with him,” says Raelene Castle.

White’s background also includes CE positions with Auckland Rugby and the Blues, Wellington Rugby and the Hurricanes and Bristol Rugby in England.

His appointment follows a rigorous international recruitment process, during which his experience, leadership and achievements in the sports sector, stood out.

“I am really excited by this opportunity,” says David White.

“I am deeply passionate about New Zealand and seeing New Zealanders succeed on the world stage and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and understanding of high performance to continue that work at HPSNZ.”

White will join HPSNZ in January 2027, replacing Steve Tew who will retire at the end of this year.

“On behalf of HPSNZ, I’d like to thank Steve for his enormous contribution over the last five and a half years. Steve leaves a strong foundation for David to continue building on and we wish him all the best for the future,” says Raelene Castle.

ENDS

Media Contact:
Michelle Pickles
Group Media Manager
media@sportnz.org.nz