Kia ora tātou,

Our CEO is currently on leave enjoying well-deserved time off with friends and whānau, so I am happy to bring to you our latest Sector Update. Matariki and Puanga are rising, marking a special time to pause, connect with others and think about the year ahead.  Last week was National Volunteer Week – a chance to thank those who give their time to help keep Aotearoa moving, whether it’s coaching, refereeing, organising or supporting.  We’ve also shared the finalists for the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards. Their stories show the passion and dedication across our sector.  And our latest review of the Tū Manawa fund shows how it’s helping tamariki and rangatahi get active. A big thank you to our Regional Sports Trusts for making these opportunities happen.

Ngā mihi nui,

Brent Robinson
Group Manager – Sector Engagement, Marketing & Communications.

Latest News - Ngā kōrero o te wā

2025 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards finalists

Congratulations to the finalists of the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards. Judges were impressed by the quality and effort behind every entry. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in Wellington on 14 July.

Racing Industry Amendment Bill passes

The Racing Industry Amendment Bill has passed, making TAB NZ the sole legal sports and racing betting provider in New Zealand. Post-legislation, Entain NZ will pay TAB NZ $100m, with $20m going to Sport NZ. We are currently working through options for allocating this payment.

Tū Manawa fund: 4 year evaluation

From July 2020 to June 2024, the Tū Manawa fund supported Regional Sports Trusts to distribute $64 million across 5,281 projects. This created nearly 2 million participation opportunities for tamariki and rangatahi, driving meaningful impact across Aotearoa.

New online casino gambling laws coming

By mid-2026, New Zealand may license 15 online casinos. Unlike TAB, Lotto and pokies, they won’t return profits to communities, potentially impacting sector funding. Submissions start at the Select Committee stage in September-October 2025.

Community Stories - Ngā kōrero mō ngā hapori

Making the outdoors inclusive for all

First Step Outdoors in Waikato shows how inclusion supports nonspeaking tamariki and rangatahi to connect and enjoy the outdoors.

New resources - Ngā rauemi hou

New Tū Manawa video

Tū Manawa removes barriers so tamariki and rangatahi can be active. It’s kaupapa Māori pathway supports belonging, wellbeing and participation for all.

New report: Rangatahi peer crowds in Aotearoa

Our latest report explores the values, relationships and worlds of rangatahi and how these influence their physical activity. These insights can help us better connect with rangatahi and improve the opportunities and experiences we offer them.

Wearable fitness technology

Discover how wearable fitness technology is transforming sport, recreation and health. Our latest futures report covers trends, ethics and innovation – from smart uniforms to AI-powered insights. Learn how we can lead the way in equity, engagement and digital transformation.

Governance - Te mana whakahaere

Special Olympics NZ awarded with Governance Mark renewal

Congratulations to Special Olympics New Zealand for earning the Governance Mark renewal this month. This award recognises their robust strategies and structures, and good governance practice in the play, active recreation and sport sector.

In case you missed it - Mēnā kāore i kitea

Celebrating our volunteers

Did you know that over 1 million volunteers help keep Aotearoa physically active? A recent survey shows the top 3 reasons New Zealanders volunteer.