Sector Update
Sector Update
Kia ora tātou,
As winter sports wind down and tournament season kicks off, I want to acknowledge everyone working to create positive experiences for young people - where they feel supported, encouraged and proud, no matter the outcome.
In this update, we share a new report on how sport can make a real difference to the lives of young people in state care. It's a powerful reminder of how physical activity enhances wellbeing – we can all play a part in building a system where every young person feels they belong. Read more below.
We also share a report on the impact of the Disability Inclusion Fund. It highlights how organisations are creating more inclusive opportunities for disabled young people to participate in activities they love.
Lastly, a quick reminder – the deadline for Incorporated Societies to re-register is coming up and missing it has legal consequences. Many are finding the process easier than expected, so please take a look if this applies to you.
Ngā mihi,
Raelene
Latest news
Ngā kōrero o te wā
The power of sport for young people in state care
This report, developed with Sport Canterbury and Healthy Families Ōtautahi, builds on previous work with Oranga Tamariki and looks at how sport and physical activity can positively transform the lives of tamariki and rangatahi living in state care.
New report: Impacts of the Disability Inclusion Fund
The 'Disability Inclusion Fund Impact Report' highlights outcomes of Sport NZ’s $3.6 million investment. 16 projects created inclusive opportunities for disabled tamariki and rangatahi to be active and laid foundations for lasting change.
Events and opportunities
Ngā kaupapa me ngā whiwhinga
Seminar: Physical activity and mental health
Join us and Te Hau Kori at 1pm on 9 October for our next seminar: 'Physical activity and mental health – Translating research into practice'. Missed the last one? 'The case for promoting a physically active society' is now available on Sport Tutor.
Vitae EAP support available for Sport NZ partner staff
A reminder that staff in Sport NZ partner organisations can access free counselling through the Vitae Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). To learn more, contact your Sport NZ partnership manager or Sport NZ People and Culture Lead, Claire George at claire.george@sportnz.org.nz.
New resources
Ngā rauemi hou
New report: Leadership journeys of Pacific women in sport
'To Lead is to Serve' shares the leadership journeys of 49 Pacific women in sport and recreation, offering insights and practical actions that can help organisations better support and uplift Pacific women in sport leadership.
New Zealand Mountain Bike Trail Design Guidelines
New guidance now available for building fun, safe and sustainable mountain bike trails across Aotearoa.
Community stories
Ngā kōrero mō ngā hapori
Making waves on the East Coast
An inspiring school surf programme connects ākonga to the moana (ocean), building water safety skills and igniting a love of surfing among tamariki and their whānau.
Opening the track for disabled young people in athletics
With support from Athletics NZ and Sport NZ's Disability Inclusion Fund, clubs are making athletics more inclusive and helping disabled tamariki and rangatahi find their stride.
Regional teams help more young triathletes give it a go
"Make it fun and easy." Feedback from parents, coaches and participants helped shape a more inclusive School Triathlon Champs experience.
Governance
Te mana whakahaere
Important reminder for Incorporated Societies
Re-register by 5 April 2026 or your society will cease to exist in law. Our new guidance outlines the risks of missing the deadline, plus tools and templates to help you update your constitution.
Sport Hawke's Bay awarded with the Governance Mark renewal
We'd like to congratulate Sport Hawke's Bay for being awarded the Governance Mark renewal this month. This achievement reflects their continued commitment and strong leadership across the sector. Learn more about external governance evaluation and prioritising the development of your board below.
In case you missed it
Mēnā kāore i kitea
Disability futures report — now in alternate formats
'The Future of Sport and Recreation for Disabled New Zealanders' report, released earlier this year, is now available in NZ Sign Language, Easy Read, Braille, audio and large print.
Explore the alternate formats →
Backing Kaupapa Māori pathways through Tū Manawa
Mahuru Māori is here! It celebrates te reo and kaupapa Māori all month long. Tū Manawa funding supports community-led, culturally grounded activity through a dedicated kaupapa Māori pathway.
