Sector Update
Sector Update
Kia ora koutou,
As we head into the final stretch of the year and the weather gets warmer, I'm reminded how much easier it is to be active with that extra daylight. Whether it's going for a walk, kicking the ball around or throwing a frisbee with friends and whānau, it's great to see more people outside and moving.
Our new Joint Action Plan with Oranga Tamariki is a practical step towards making a real difference in young people's lives. Together, we're working to open up more opportunities for young people in care to be active, build connections and support their wellbeing. That's a shared purpose we can all get behind.
That power to connect people extends well beyond our shores, too. This month, the 100 Years of Unity through Sport celebration continues, bringing communities together, strengthening New Zealand's relationship with India and creating opportunities for both countries. It's a great example of New Zealand's Sport Diplomacy Strategy in action and how sport can bring us together.
And a big thank you to everyone who got involved in Play Week 2026. This year's theme, 'whānau play where whānau are', was a reminder that everyday places can be places to play. In this issue, you can explore the Value of Play and the evidence behind its benefits.
Ngā mihi,
Raelene
Latest news
Ngā kōrero o te wā
100 Years of Unity through Sport kicks off
New Zealand and India are marking a century of sporting connection across 5 cities this November. See what’s happening in your area and be part of the celebration.
Helping care-experienced tamariki and rangatahi get active
Every child deserves the chance to be active, whatever their circumstances. Sport NZ and Oranga Tamariki are working together to reduce barriers and improve access to play, active recreation and sport for care-experienced tamariki and rangatahi.
New resources
Ngā rauemi hou
New tools and evidence to support the value of play
See the evidence behind play’s benefits and access practical tools to support planning, policy, advocacy and investment conversations.
Understanding the full cost of sport facilities
When developing, maintaining and renewing sport facilities, it’s important to consider more than just the build costs. This report provides indicative whole-of-life costs for a range of sport facilities to help plan for the long term.
New insights into sport facility ownership models
Major sport facilities play an important role in communities, but deciding who should own, fund, govern and operate them can be complex. This report explores different ownership models, alongside international trends and case studies to support decision making.
Events and opportunities
Ngā kaupapa me ngā whiwhinga
New Zealand-India Business, Sport and Innovation Summit
Join senior leaders from business, government, sport, technology and education in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland on 12 and 13 November. Explore how to strengthen New Zealand-India partnerships, connect people and markets, and build future collaboration.
In-person seminar: Active places and spaces
Sport NZ and Te Hau Kori are hosting an in-person seminar on Thursday 12 November in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington. Meet international expert Jasper Schipperijn and local specialist Scott Duncan as they look at how places and spaces can support physical activity, wellbeing and connected communities.
Sport Leaders Fund applications open
The Sport Leaders Fund supports senior sport leaders to grow networks, relationships and confidence engaging with Asia, with 4 grants available for 2027 travel. Applications close Monday 16 November.
In case you missed it
Mēnā kāore i kitea
Creating places that make movement part of everyday life
Did you miss our Every Body Active by Design webinar? Watch the team behind the guide share practical insights and examples of how active design can create urban environments that support everyday movement and more active lives.
Physical activity and climate change seminar
Helping people be more active and tackling climate change might seem like different challenges, but many of the same solutions can benefit both. Watch the seminar recording from Sport NZ and Te Hau Kori to hear from experts and learn more.
A refreshed Sport NZ Group Careers website
The site has moved to a new platform with a simpler look and feel. Current job listings have moved across and advertising a role works the same way. Visit the site, select ‘list a job’ and complete the form.
