Sector Update
Sector Update
Kia ora tātou,
The Winter Olympic Games have ended, and our attention turns to the Paralympic Games. Team New Zealand finished with 3 medals, reflecting the commitment of our athletes, coaches, whānau and teams behind the scenes.
This week, I’m in India as part of the Sport Leaders Delegation led by Minister Bishop. The visit supports the Sport Diplomacy Strategy and is an important opportunity to strengthen relationships that will matter for sport’s future. It’s also a significant opportunity to advance our Sports Memorandum of Cooperation and to strengthen bilateral links for both Government and the sport sector.
Also looking ahead, we’ve released a report exploring how changes in transport and mobility could influence sport and active recreation. It highlights the growing importance of local, informal play, alongside emerging equity challenges we’ll need to respond to as a sector.
As winter sports approach, it’s timely to remember that rest, reassurance, wellbeing and fun are central to helping young people stay active and engaged. In the meantime, enjoy the Paralympics!
Ngā mihi,
Raelene
Latest news
Ngā kōrero o te wā
Companies Act 1993 proposed changes
Proposed changes to the Companies Act 1993 are on the horizon. These changes are important for sport organisations to know and may signal wider shifts across the sector.
Consultation on draft curriculum
The Ministry of Education is consulting on proposed changes to the New Zealand Curriculum for Years 0-10, including the Health and Physical Education learning area. Share your views via their website by 24 April.
New resources
Ngā rauemi hou
Simplified constitution template now available for clubs
A simplified, compliant constitution template for clubs wanting to re-register under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 by the 5 April 2026 deadline, is now available. This page linked below also includes FAQs to help you determine if this is the right approach for your club.
How we move shapes how we play
A new Sport NZ futures report explores how changes in transport and mobility could transform sport and active recreation – from the rise of local, informal play to new equity challenges and digital delivery models.
Spot concussion signs early with free resources
ACC’s concussion resources help coaches, volunteers and whānau spot symptoms early, make confident decisions and support young people to return to sport safely. Order free quick reference cards and symptom checklists for your club or organisation.
Events and opportunities
Ngā kaupapa me ngā whiwhinga
Seminar: Approaches to movement and sport
In partnership with Te Hau Kori, we’re excited to present our next seminar on 26 March: Play their way – Approaches to movement and sport for young people. Hear from experts who will share the latest research and practical insights.
2026 National Māori Sport and Recreation Conference
The 2026 National Māori Sport and Recreation Conference takes place in Rotorua on 25-26 May. Hosted by Te Puia/NZMACI and guided by tikanga Māori, the theme Hawaiki Mokopuna focuses on intergenerational wellbeing and kaupapa Māori pathways that will shape the future.
Youth Week grants closing soon
There are grants of up to $1,000 available to support youth-led events during Youth Week (18-24 May). Led by Ara Taiohi, the grants help rangatahi plan and deliver events that amplify their voices and build meaningful connections in their communities. Applications close 15 March 2026.
2026 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards
Celebrate excellence across the sector! Nominate individuals and organisations shaping lives in Aotearoa. Nominations close 30 March 2026. Submit via the Awards Portal. Winners will be announced on 8 June 2026.
Build the future of play in Aotearoa
Enrol in PAAH 512 Active Play – Ngā Mahi Tākaro to build skills in play theory, practice and mātauranga Māori. Build confidence to reflect and improve everyday practice, while progressing toward Physical Activity and Hauora qualifications. This starts 6 July 2026.
In case you missed it
Mēnā kāore i kitea
New media and gender case study: Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 made up 25% of all sports news coverage in New Zealand during that period – a positive result given the event was held offshore.
The power of green spaces
As Parks Week wraps up, we’re sharing our recent report showing how being active in green spaces like parks, bush areas and reserves supports hauora, happiness and connection. These spaces are also free and easy to access.
Our homepage has a fresh look
We’ve refreshed the Sport NZ homepage to make it simpler to use, with improved navigation, accessibility and search. It’s now easier to reach key sites like HPSNZ, Balance is Better and Sport Tutor as we continue to improve the online experience.
