Sector Update
Sector Update
Kia ora tātou,
With so much going on around the world right now, the role you play in keeping communities active and connected in Aotearoa matters more than ever.
International events and economic pressures are affecting the environment we’re all working in. This update highlights some of the main issues we’re seeing for our sector. It includes a discussion paper on the conflict in the Middle East and what it could mean for planning and decision‑making. You’ll also find our latest disruptor scan, which looks at ongoing pressures on participation, affordability and community spaces.
There have also been changes within Government and to our Board. Hon Mark Mitchell continues as Minister for Sport and Recreation following the Prime Minister’s Cabinet refresh, with Hon Chris Bishop stepping down as Associate Minister. We have also welcomed Dale Aotea Stephens and Rāniera Procter to the Sport NZ Board.
There’s a lot to navigate across the sector right now, from global events to the impacts of the weekend’s weather for many communities. As always, we remain committed to working alongside you as we do this together. He waka eke noa.
Ngā mihi,
Raelene
Latest news
Ngā kōrero o te wā
Conflict in the Middle East: implications for the sector
This discussion paper takes a closer look at the conflict in the Middle East and what it could mean for planning, costs and participation across sport and recreation in Aotearoa. We are actively monitoring the situation and the Government’s Fuel Response Plan – we will provide further guidance for the sector if needed.
Incorporated societies: if you missed the deadline
Almost all incorporated societies successfully re-registered under the Incorporated Societies Act by the 5 April deadline. A huge collective effort from across the sector! If you missed the deadline, find out what this means and how to restore your society.
Online Casino Gambling Bill update
The Online Casino Gambling Bill is progressing through Parliament and is expected to come into effect from 1 May 2026. Find out what this could mean for sport and recreation organisations that rely on gaming funding.
It’s My Move – final report
Read how influencer-led storytelling through social media helped young women reframe physical activity as fun, informal and achievable – driving meaningful behaviour change nationwide.
Events and opportunities
Ngā kaupapa me ngā whiwhinga
National Māori Sport and Recreation Conference
Join Māori leaders, athletes and practitioners at the 2026 National Māori Sport and Recreation Conference, 25-26 May in Rotorua. Tickets are selling fast. Elite athlete siblings Joe and Jordon Webber are among the first speakers announced.
Recruit board members with Appoint Better Boards
Appoint Better Boards is a free platform helping sport and recreation organisations connect with skilled women interested in governance roles. Search by region, skills and experience, or create a profile to put yourself forward for board opportunities.
New resources
Ngā rauemi hou
Disruptor scan – March 2026
This quarterly scan looks across the wider pressures shaping play, active recreation and sport. It highlights economic strain, affordability, social media harms and system sustainability – and helps build understanding of what’s changing and what to watch for next.
Research, evaluation and insights toolkit
Our new toolkit helps you collect, understand and apply evidence to support smarter decisions and better outcomes for participants and communities.
Explore Pacific dance with new video series
ASB Polyfest’s SIVA Project video series offers expert masterclasses and practical ideas to support Pacific dance delivery in schools and communities.
Community stories
Ngā kōrero mō ngā hapori
A neighbourhood transformed through play
Tamariki from East Gore School worked with council and community partners to turn their ideas into lasting play spaces – inspiring possibilities for other neighbourhoods.
In case you missed it
Mēnā kāore i kitea
Sport Leaders Delegation to India
Last month, Hon Chris Bishop and Sport NZ led a delegation of sport leaders to India to strengthen relationships and recognise 100 years of sporting ties.
Missed our designing streets for tamariki webinar?
Watch Skye Duncan and Sport NZ’s Scott Mackenzie discuss creating safer, more active and playful streets.
Approaches to movement and sport seminar
See how learning through play is shaping better movement and sport experiences for young people. This Te Hau Kori seminar is now available to watch. Missed the live session? Watch the recording on Sport Tutor – click ‘Enrol’ at the link below.
