Kia ora, my name is Tim Coltman and I was fortunate enough to be on the 2016-17 Sport NZ Graduate Programme. My sporting background is in sailing and coaching, and I studied at Victoria University Wellington, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts. 

In the second year of the programme I was placed with Sport Manawatu, Snow Sports NZ and Winter Games NZ ­– these helped to open my eyes to a variety of career paths including working in grass roots community sport, high performance sport and major sporting events. Ultimately these second year work placements, coupled with strong guidance and mentorship from my Sport NZ Manager, helped me to narrow down what I’m passionate about.

The experiences I had and the networks I built while on the Sport NZ Graduate Programme were instrumental in helping me land my current job as the Assistant Sports Manager at Winter Games NZ. The role is based in Wanaka (a.k.a. paradise), and involves planning and delivering the biggest snow sports event in the southern hemisphere, the Audi Quattro Winter Games.

I love my job, as it allows me to work with a wide range of organisations and people who are equally as passionate about sport. Although at times event management can cause sleepless nights, it is incredibly satisfying when all the components come together and the Kiwi athletes are standing at the top of the podium!

The Sport NZ Graduate Programme provides the perfect platform for building a career in the sport and recreation sector. I couldn’t recommend it more to those who are passionate, driven and hungry to seize the opportunity.

Sport NZ's graduate programme 2018

Applications for Sport NZ's Graduate Programme 2018 are now open. This is a two-year programme for a graduate aspiring to become a future leader in the sport and recreation sector.  

For more information and to apply, please visit our careers section.