Sector Update
Sector Update
Kia ora tātou,
There’s a lot happening across our sector right now – both here in Aotearoa and internationally. Our latest Active NZ snapshots build a clearer picture of participation. The findings highlight the importance of being inclusive and responsive to diverse communities.
We’ve also marked Volunteer Week – a chance to thank the people who keep community sport going. All sports and communities have these special people – we saw them celebrated at the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards and called out in the King’s Birthday Honours.
On the world stage, the FIFA World Cup is giving us plenty of moments to enjoy, while the Glasgow Commonwealth Games are just weeks away. I want to acknowledge the team behind the athletes heading to the Games and the work that’s gone into supporting them. I wish the New Zealand team all the very best and I know many will be cheering them on with a few late nights and early starts.
As Matariki approaches, it’s a timely reminder to reflect, come together with whānau and celebrate the Māori New Year. Mānawatia a Matariki.
Ngā mihi,
Raelene
Latest news
Ngā kōrero o te wā
What’s influencing sport and recreation right now
This latest disruptor scan explores funding, climate, youth wellbeing and digital trends shaping sport and recreation. See what’s changing for the sector.
Events and opportunities
Ngā kaupapa me ngā whiwhinga
Help improve our website
If you haven’t had a chance yet, we’d really appreciate your feedback. It only takes 10 minutes and will help make the website better for everyone.
Recognising volunteer coaches across Aotearoa
Bunnings Coaching Legends celebrates volunteer coaches making a difference in community sport. Nominations are now open, with prizes for coaches and their clubs. Share this with your networks and help recognise those making an impact.
Inclusive Para Sport Grant open
The PNZ Bupa Inclusive Para Sport Grant supports organisations, clubs and community groups to increase participation and create more inclusive sporting environments for disabled New Zealanders. Applications close 15 July.
Matariki 2026
The theme, Matariki Herenga Waka – For Everyone, reflects bringing people together – just as sport and physical activity connect communities across Aotearoa. Join Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei for the national Matariki ceremony at Takaparawhau, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland at 5.30am, Friday 10 July.
New resources
Ngā rauemi hou
Active NZ snapshots
Explore how neurodivergent young people and young new migrants experience play, active recreation and sport in Aotearoa. These new snapshots show what needs to change to support more young people to be active in ways that work for them.
Understanding demographic change
Explore the shifts in age, diversity and population growth that will shape sport and recreation. This futures paper can help organisations make informed decisions and stay relevant in the years ahead. Available under ‘Latest resources’ on our futures webpage.
At a glance: Active schools and kura
These quick-read resources bring together evidence on how physical activity supports learning, with practical actions for schools and kura. Use them to support conversations with school leaders and advocate for more opportunities for ākonga to be active.
Insights on keeping young people in sport
USA Hockey’s Ken Martel recently visited Aotearoa and shared what keeps young people in sport. This article and video highlights why positive experiences matter, with useful takeaways to help create environments young people want to return to.
Learning that happens through movement
Physical Education New Zealand has released a new value statement that reflects how physical education supports the learning and wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi. Their April journal explores this in depth and what it means in practice.
Community stories
Ngā kōrero mō ngā hapori
Rangatahi lead the way in bouldering
Connection, confidence and skills – that’s what 40 young women gained at a Youth Week bouldering event led by rangatahi in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.
In case you missed it
Mēnā kāore i kitea
Connections Conference recordings now available
Connections 2026 focused on building a strong, future-ready sector. Watch key sessions and continue the kōrero.
