Sector Update
Sector Update
Tēnā koutou katoa,
It’s great to see the new Active NZ survey results released showing physical activity is bouncing back across Aotearoa. Young people, aged 11 to 17, are getting more active again post COVID-19, and adults are helping to keep that momentum going.
Behind these results are stories of impact, like Te Aute College in Hawke’s Bay - an Active As school where students choose how they move and thrive in class and on the court. Please watch the video, it is one example of many where our strategy and investment is making a difference.
I want to thank Raewyn Lovett for her dedicated service on our Board since 2018 and as Chair since mid 2023. Her leadership and experience have driven and shaped our journey, and I’m grateful to work and learn alongside her. Raewyn leaves proud to have been part of the team and sector that has seen physical activity make a real difference, on the ground, in many communities.
All the best for the frantic run into Christmas.
Ngā mihi nui,
Raelene
Latest news
Ngā kōrero o te wā

The Active NZ Survey 2024/25 report is here!
Explore how people in Aotearoa are staying active – with insights into whānau support, tech-driven movement and the evolving ways we engage with physical activity.

Nau mai, haere mai Tyla King
We’re excited to welcome Tyla King to Te Taumata Māori. She’s a 5-sport international athlete with elite experience, strong cultural leadership and a voice for wāhine wellbeing.
Have you re-registered yet?
Have you re-registered under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 yet? Don’t wait until April 2026. Get started now and take the pressure off before the summer break!
Global coaching conference coming to Aotearoa
Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington will host the ICCE Global Coach Conference 2027, bringing together international leaders to explore inclusive, values-based coaching and share ideas shaping the future of sport development.
Christchurch to host 2026 NZ Short Course Swimming Champs
The 2026 championships are heading to the new Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre in Christchurch for the first time since 2010.
Online casino gambling regulation proposal
The Government is proposing to regulate online casino gambling and establish a new funding stream from a proportion of the revenue to benefit local sports clubs and community groups.
Events and opportunities
Ngā kaupapa me ngā whiwhinga
Z Manu World Champs are back!
Pop a manu at the free Push Play sessions this summer. Whānau who manu together, stay together. Kicks off in Ōtepoti Dunedin on 30 November.
Seminar: Active bodies, active minds
In partnership with Te Hau Kori, we’re excited to present our next seminar on 13 November: ‘Active bodies, active minds – Physical activity and educational outcomes’. If you missed our last one on physical activity and mental health, it’s now on Sport Tutor.
Webinar: The board’s role in fraud prevention
Join us on 18 November for a practical session on how boards can lead fraud prevention. Hear directly from the Serious Fraud Office and Sport Integrity Commission and learn what to watch out for and how to strengthen governance.
Webinar: Rangatahi peer crowds in Aotearoa
Join us on 1 December for part 2 of our series exploring peer crowds – a new way to understand rangatahi and physical activity. We’ll dive into Active NZ survey results across peer crowds. Missed part 1? You’ll get access to the recording when you register.
Sports Leaders Fund – Apply now
Applications are open for the Asia New Zealand Foundation Sports Leaders Fund, supporting sport leaders in Aotearoa to connect across Asia. Applications close 17 November. Read about last year’s recipient, Dr Catriona McBean in Nepal.
Community stories
Ngā kōrero mō ngā hapori

The impact of Active As
See the impact of Active As at Te Aute College – helping students show up stronger in the classroom, on the court and in life.

Turning fears into freedom
Swimming NZ helps disabled and neurodivergent tamariki build water confidence through tailored swim lessons with specialist schools.

Sport diplomacy in action
Sport helped drive New Zealand’s recent diplomatic mission to India – connecting communities, building relationships and advancing shared goals.

Celebrating Māori pride in South Auckland
Iwi of Origin marked 18 years of whānau, whakapapa and hauora – bringing rangatahi and whānau Māori together through physical activity. Supported by Aktive and He Oranga Poutama.
Governance
Te mana whakahaere
North Harbour Hockey Association awarded the Governance Mark
Congratulations to North Harbour Hockey Association on earning the Governance Mark. This reflects their ongoing commitment to sound governance practices that support their success. Visit our website to learn more about governance evaluation.
In case you missed it
Mēnā kāore i kitea
Discover and list sector jobs today
Our careers website is full of opportunities across our sector and the country. Whether you're hiring or job hunting, it's the place to connect with like-minded, passionate organisations making a real difference.
