Skip to Content

News updates

Ngā whakahōunga pānui

News updates

Get the latest play, active recreation and sport news from Sport NZ and across the sector, from national to local levels. Read about new initiatives, awards, research findings, funding, leadership, partnerships and more. If there's something you've missed, use the search function below and browse by year or keywords.

Please select atleast one filter option, or enter a search term.
25 January 2024
Sector Update - 25 January 2024

Kia ora tātou,   Welcome back to a new year! I hope everyone had the perfect mix of whānau, relaxation, fun and being active over the…

Read More
20 December 2023
Sector Update - 20 December 2023

Kia ora koutou, Well, what a year it’s been – there’s plenty to reflect on as 2023 comes to a close, across a year that featured lows…

Read More
30 November 2023
Sector Update - 30 November 2023

Kia ora koutou,  The past week has been a significant one for our sector on many fronts. You will have seen that the Hon Chris Bishop…

Read More
28 November 2023
Sport NZ - Ihi Aotearoa Supporting Māori Excellence at the 2023 Te Tohu Tākaro o Aotearoa, Māori Sports Awards

Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa contingent in attendance at the 2023 Te Tohu Tākaro o Aotearoa. Photo credit: www.photosport.nz Te Tohu Taakaro…

Read More
22 November 2023
All ages taking up chance to get on-board skate lessons

When Amber Clyde started her skating programme five years ago, she was determined to get more girls on four wheels.   She’s got a new…

Read More
03 November 2023
Disabled Rotorua swimmer makes a splash

It’s been three years since Rotorua’s Ashmit Danney first swam in a pool - now the teen is eyeing a spot in New Zealand’s Paralympic…

Read More
02 November 2023
Play is everywhere, but it’s under threat!

Play is all around us and Sport NZ is encouraging tamariki and their whānau to find ways to play anywhere and everywhere to celebrate…

Read More
27 October 2023
Sector Update - 27 October

Kia ora tātou,  Aotearoa’s bumper year of sport continues – how good is it to see the All Blacks in this year’s Rugby World Cup final!…

Read More
29 September 2023
Sector Update - 29 September 2023

Kia ora koutou,  I hope everyone is doing well and looking forward to what will hopefully be a long summer, let’s all cross our…

Read More
26 September 2023
Sport NZ launches new Inclusivity Hub

Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa is helping to ensure sport and recreation is inclusive for everyone with the launch of a new Inclusivity…

Read More
07 September 2023
First Step Outdoors

First Step Outdoors is providing opportunities and safe spaces for rangatahi to try outdoor activities in a supportive environment

Read More
07 September 2023
Youth-led approach takes climbing to the community

A culture, values and leadership session has turned an Auckland climbing club on its head. In 2017, and after attending the Aims…

Read More
31 August 2023
Sector Update - 31 August 2023

Kia ora tatou,  I hope you’re all well and enjoyed following the FIFA Women’s World Cup - it’s hard to believe it’s already over! It…

Read More
15 August 2023
Women and girls' health in focus

Against the backdrop of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ and rising interest in women’s sport, Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa is helping to…

Read More
02 August 2023
Communities get inclusive facilities thanks to World Cup

One of the legacies that will be left from Aotearoa hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup is safer, more inclusive spaces for people to…

Read More
27 July 2023
Sector Update - 27 July 2023

Kia ora tatou,  It’s fair to say football fever has taken hold across Aotearoa now the FIFA Women’s World Cup has kicked off. It was a…

Read More
24 July 2023
Sport NZ Announces 2023 Sport and Recreation Award Winners

Sport NZ has tonight recognised the winners of the annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation awards as part of its annual conference in…

Read More
12 July 2023
Special Sector Update: Our new Board Chair and Deputy Chair

Kia ora tatou,  I wanted to share some news with you all regarding recent changes on our Sport NZ and HPSNZ Boards.  Our current Chair…

Read More
10 July 2023
Far North initiatives open doors for disabled tamariki

A new role at Parafed Northland is giving disabled tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau more opportunities to be active in the Far…

Read More
30 June 2023
Sector Update - 30 June 2023

Kia ora koutou, I wanted to start this update with a nod to our people in Tairāwhiti/ Gisborne who continue to do it tough after…

Read More
29 June 2023
It’s Time to get behind our Football Ferns!

  In just three weeks the Football Ferns will take to the pitch for the biggest sporting event to be held in Aotearoa – the FIFA…

Read More
28 June 2023
Success of Tapuwaekura pilot sees Sport NZ invest $4.5 million to help kura across Aotearoa

Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa is investing $4.5 million to expand the pilot initiative Tapuwaekura  throughout Aotearoa.  Along with the…

Read More
08 June 2023
He Oranga Poutama National Hui

Supporting and growing Māori leadership and participation in sport, active recreation and play

Read More
07 June 2023
Ignite Sport opens a new home to the community

Where some saw overgrown grass, and a dilapidated building, Ignite Sport saw a future that included a new home for their…

Read More
06 June 2023
Trying new activities helps young wāhine to reboot

A new initiative in Ōtautahi Christchurch is growing in popularity as young wāhine take a break from their studies to make connections…

Read More
02 June 2023
Finalists announced for 2023 NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

Sport NZ has announced the finalists for its annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards, which celebrate individuals and…

Read More
30 May 2023
Sector Update - 30 May 2023

Kia ora koutou,    The countdown to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 is a key focus as we get ready for the biggest female sporting…

Read More
30 May 2023
Neuro-divergent students excel in outdoors

The Duke of Edinburgh Award programme has helped to boost the confidence and physical endurance of neuro-divergent secondary school…

Read More
29 May 2023
Sport NZ launches Balanced Female Health

A new resource for adults supporting young people in community sport Sport NZ has launched a new resource to support adults to…

Read More
29 May 2023
Manawatū former refugee community have a go and get active

Innovative partnership brings Manawatū former refugee community together through physical activity initiatives Involvement in new…

Read More
15 May 2023
Gym classes helping young wāhine to love themselves and lead from the front

Among the spin bikes and punching bags in the Toitū Pōneke Sports Hub, a group of rangatahi have found their happy place.   Three…

Read More
26 April 2023
Empowering youth and lifting mauri through movement

An Ōtautahi-based organisation is helping a group of rainbow and takatāpui rangatahi gain the confidence to ‘take up space’ in gym and…

Read More
11 April 2023
He Oranga Poutama expanded into Manawatū

He Oranga Poutama, a long-standing physical activity programme by Māori, for Māori, as Māori has been expanded to the Manawatū,…

Read More
06 April 2023
Sector Update - 6 April 2023

Kia ora koutou,    I hope you're all doing well and you have plans over Easter to combine the best elements of Easter. Time with…

Read More
03 April 2023
Sport NZ and Variety NZ – the Children’s Charity, announce a further $5.5 million to help whānau living in financial hardship

Sport NZ, in partnership with Variety NZ – the Children’s Charity, has announced it will invest a further $5.5 million into the Active…

Read More
17 March 2023
Kua pānui a Ihi Aotearoa i tētahi hinonga kāwanatanga hou e kīia nei ko Te Taumata Māori

Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa announces new entity Te Taumata Māori

Read More
27 February 2023
Entries open for 2023 NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

Entries are now open for the annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards.   Every year, individuals and organisations throughout…

Read More
23 February 2023
Sector Update 23 February 2023

Kia ora koutou, We recognise this is a very challenging time for many across the sector. The localised effects of recent severe…

Read More
10 February 2023
Sport NZ boosts play though $4.3 million initiative into local government

Sport NZ is investing $4.3 million into a project that will help councils across Aotearoa highlight the value of play for tamariki and…

Read More
26 January 2023
Sector Update - 26 January 2023

Kia ora koutou,  Welcome back to the new year, I hope everyone had a nice break over summer and managed to spend time with friends and…

Read More
19 December 2022
Whānau day shows the power of a connected community

Scooters were popular at The Active Hub Whānau Day at Richmond Primary in Napier, which offered a chance for the whole community to be…

Read More
19 December 2022
Sector Update - 19 December 2022

Kia ora koutou,  I hope you’re all doing well and looking forward to a well-deserved break with friends and whānau over the festive…

Read More
15 December 2022
Food and play is a recipe for success in Southland

Jessie Beer, KiwiHarvest and Megan Dawson, Healthy Families Invercargill play systems innovator, Active Southland A group of Southland…

Read More
08 December 2022
Gym classes get rural kids active

What started with two Mums, a few children, a couple of mats and some other assorted gymnastics gear on loan has since grown into a…

Read More
08 December 2022
Sports club opens doors for rural New Plymouth communities

A new initiative that aims to ensure rural children and their families have access to sporting and social opportunities in New…

Read More
06 December 2022
Schools embrace unstructured free play

Students playing at Marshall Laing Primary School A cluster of Auckland schools are embracing a new play initiative that is the first…

Read More
06 December 2022
Guiding principles for the inclusion of transgender people in community sport

Sport NZ has developed guiding principles for the inclusion of transgender people in community sport (not elite sport). These are…

Read More
05 December 2022
Collaborative approach to providing inclusive sport opportunities for disabled rangatahi proves a win-win

Collaborative approach to providing inclusive sport opportunities for disabled rangatahi proves a win-win Canterbury secondary schools…

Read More
01 December 2022
Fun for the whole whānau during footie season

New Plymouth Rangers AFC successfully applied for Tū Manawa funding through Sport Taranaki for a play project to keep the children of…

Read More
14 November 2022
Get Outdoors Week – spotlight on Sam Lange

When Sam Lange is caving as part of her outdoor adventures, it’s her time to reset and then emerge feeling refreshed.  The 19 year-old…

Read More
10 November 2022
The Path to Genuine Bi-Culturalism – Stories from Connections 2022

Read More
10 November 2022
Shaping the Future of Sport and Recreation in New Zealand – Stories from Connections 22

Read More
10 November 2022
Sector Update 10 November 2022

Kia ora koutou,  I hope you're all well and managed to catch what was an amazing match between the Black Ferns and France over the…

Read More
07 November 2022
It's Play Week Aotearoa 2022!

Sport NZ is leading the call to encourage tamariki, whānau and communities to ‘Come Out and Play’ during Play Week Aotearoa 2022. Play…

Read More
02 November 2022
Connections 2022 Day Two Wrap

Day two of Sport NZ’s Connections 2022 Conference in Christchurch featured an eclectic mix of speakers with sports broadcasting…

Read More
01 November 2022
Future of Sport and Recreation up for Discussion on Opening Day of Connections 2022

A challenge to envisage the best possible future for sport and recreation and to act now to ensure it becomes a reality was laid down…

Read More
31 October 2022
Sport NZ announces 2022 Sport and Recreation Award winners

Sport NZ has tonight recognised the winners of the annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation awards.

Read More
21 October 2022
Governance role empowering youth and building future leaders

For three years, Ishan Kokulan has been the youth voice guiding decisions, policy and change at the Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award.…

Read More
13 October 2022
Enabling wellbeing for disabled young people through functional movement

A group of young people in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland have seen huge gains from a new programme organised with the help of Tū Manawa…

Read More
13 October 2022
Sector Update - 13 October 2022

Kia ora koutou, What an amazing start to the Rugby World Cup, with a record-breaking sell out at Eden Park and an unforgettable…

Read More
29 September 2022
Special Sector Update: It's Time! Sport NZ launches campaign to build support for elite women’s sport

Sport NZ launches campaign to build support for elite women’s sport  Sport NZ has launched ‘It’s Time’ – a campaign aimed at…

Read More
29 September 2022
It’s Time! Sport NZ launches campaign to build support for elite women’s sport

Sport NZ launches campaign to build support for elite women’s sport With two women's world cups and a world series on the horizon in…

Read More
22 September 2022
Healthy Active Learning now in 40 percent of schools and kura across New Zealand

Healthy Active Learning, the joint government initiative between Sport NZ and the Ministries of Health and Education, has recently hit…

Read More
15 September 2022
Sector Update 15 September 2022

Kia ora koutou, This week’s announcement regarding the changes to COVID-19 guidance brings great news for sport and recreation with…

Read More
14 September 2022
Funding initiative helps kids get active their way

Funding of scooters for a young Auckland family has allowed them to be more active more often and changed family life for the…

Read More
08 September 2022
School embraces more inclusive mindset towards physical activity

Happy Wai-Walkers get active at lunchtime without having to change out of their school uniforms Girls at Waikowhai Intermediate are…

Read More
08 September 2022
Valued HPE curriculum boosts student engagement

When students at Papakura’s Edmund Hilary School went into lockdown again in August 2021, take-home play packs and gutter boards, made…

Read More
06 September 2022
Finalists announced for 2022 NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

Sport NZ has announced the finalists for its annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards, which celebrate individuals and…

Read More
01 September 2022
Rotorua High School says “Let’s Go Girls”!

A new initiative at Rotorua Girls’ High School called Let’s Go Girls is living up to its name with hundreds of girls giving physical…

Read More
23 August 2022
Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa Welcomes New GM Kāhui Rautaki Māori, Trevor Himona

In August 2022, Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa welcomed Trevor Himona (Ngāti Tūkorehe, Raukawa ki te Tonga, Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Wairarapa) as…

Read More
16 August 2022
Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa partners with new National Māori Sport Authority

Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa has announced a partnership with Te Huinga Tākaro o Aotearoa (Te Huinga Tākaro), a new National Māori Sport…

Read More
12 August 2022
Active Southland embraces Mana Taiohi approach

Southland Boys High students with the school’s Head of Māori (Kaiako), Junior Tonga (left), and Ned Wepiha, Te Whare tū tauā o…

Read More
12 August 2022
Sector Update 12 August 2022

Kia ora koutou, What a great few weeks it's been for our athletes and teams at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. There have been…

Read More
12 August 2022
Sector Update - 12 August 2022

Kia ora koutou, What a great few weeks it's been for our athletes and teams at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. There have been…

Read More
12 August 2022
Sport NZ and Les Mills join forces to help young women get physically active

Sport NZ has launched a collaboration with Les Mills to encourage and support young women to move their way.The digital collaboration…

Read More
15 July 2022
Sector Update - 15 July 2022

Kia ora koutou, In just over two weeks the 2022 Commonwealth Games will be kicking off in Birmingham. So many people have been working…

Read More
12 July 2022
Building resilience in sports affected by COVID-19

On 8 July, the Minister for Sport and Recreation confirmed the latest organisations to receive funding towards their strengthen and…

Read More
07 July 2022
E hono ana a Ihi Aotearoa ki Te Whare Tū Taua o Aotearoa

Pānui Pāpāho  7 o Hūrae, 2022  Kua pānui atu a Ihi Aotearoa me Te Whare Tū Taua o Aotearoa i tētahi hononga hou e whakawhiwhia atu ai…

Read More
06 July 2022
Tupu Tahi – Growing together: Connecting with the taiao through play and kai

Tākaro Māori allows tamariki to experience joy and fun while giving them the opportunity to make sense of their culture, whakapapa,…

Read More
29 June 2022
Expansion of He Oranga Poutama broadens reach to Māori

On 29 June the Minister for Sport and Recreation announced the expansion of the long standing kaupapa Māori wellbeing programme He…

Read More
09 June 2022
Sector Update - 9 June 2022

Kia ora koutou,It has been a much-anticipated couple of weeks as we announced the relaunch of a kiwi classic, the Push Play campaign.…

Read More
25 May 2022
It’s time to Push Play - Again

Sport New Zealand launches physical activity campaign to encourage nation to get moving again after COVID disruption. Sport NZ is…

Read More
16 May 2022
Life changing rafting adventure for disabled students

A white-water rafting trip has instilled a passion for the outdoors and taught a group of West Coast young people that the sky is the…

Read More
06 May 2022
Sector Update - 6 May 2022

Kia ora koutou, We’ve been fortunate to enjoy an extended period of long weekends and I hope you’ve had the opportunity to make the…

Read More
04 May 2022
Good Sports® builds momentum across the country

A further 15 national and regional sport organisations have signed up to Good Sports®, an initiative developed by Aktive, which is…

Read More
04 May 2022
Canterbury kids get active with take-home equipment

Students from St James Primary, a Healthy Active Learning School, have been taking play and sport equipment home and getting active…

Read More
29 April 2022
Going with the flow – new inclusive resource to empower rangatahi in the outdoors

New inclusive resource to empower rangatahi in the outdoors New resource by Education Outdoors New Zealand aims to increase gender…

Read More
11 April 2022
Entries open for 2022 NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

The NZ Sport and Recreation Awards look to recognise the best of this work and celebrate excellence and leadership in the sector.

Read More
08 April 2022
Sector Update - 8 April 2022

Kia ora koutou, I hope this Sector Update finds you in good health and spirits, though for many of you, Covid-19 will now be a lived…

Read More
05 April 2022
Rangatahi go bush

Sport Hawke’s Bay and Te Aratika Academy have joined forces to provide active recreation opportunities for rangatahi.

Read More
04 April 2022
Impacts of the first year of COVID-19 on physical activity

Sport NZ study shows COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impact on physical activity Sport NZ has published a study into the impact…

Read More
25 March 2022
New opportunities for disabled tamariki and rangatahi to be active

Sport NZ welcomes today’s announcement by the Minister for Sport and Recreation Grant Robertson of a $3.64 million investment to…

Read More
25 March 2022
COVID-19 Sector Update - 25 March 2022

Kia ora koutou,From 11.59pm on Friday 25 March 2022 the traffic light system is changing.  These changes reflect public health advice,…

Read More
23 March 2022
COVID-19 Sector Update - 23 March 2022

Kia ora koutou,Today the Government announced changes to the COVID-19 Protection Framework (CPF) and vaccine mandates. See the updated…

Read More
17 March 2022
Te Pākē o Ihi Aotearoa and Te Aho a Ihi Aotearoa

We’re excited to announce the release of Te Pākē o Ihi Aotearoa and Te Aho a Ihi Aotearoa.

Read More
17 March 2022
Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa announces new Māori Activation Plan

Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa has further demonstrated its commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi with the release of Te Aho a Ihi Aotearoa, its…

Read More
11 March 2022
COVID-19 Sector Update - 11 March

Kia ora koutou,As we continue to deal with rising Omicron cases around the country, I hope you and your whānau are staying as well as…

Read More
08 March 2022
Sector Update - 8 March 2022

Kia ora koutou, I hope you are staying as well as possible as we navigate the steep rise in Omicron cases around the country.  It’s…

Read More
07 March 2022
Excited learners in Gore bring outdoor lessons home

In 2021, Dolamore Park set in the Hokonui Hills and featuring 95 hectares of native forest was the classroom for year 3 to 6 ākonga…

Read More
07 March 2022
Loose Parts Play Park in Pahiatua

Tamariki in the rural community of Pahiatua have new play opportunities thanks to the development of a loose parts play park. Based at…

Read More
02 March 2022
Governance and Organisational review

The outcomes of the Governance and Organisational review of Sport NZ and High Performance Sport NZ have been released. The purpose of…

Read More
24 February 2022
Special Sector Update: #ItsMyMove – SportNZ launches new campaign

Supporting young women to move the way they choose  We are thrilled to bring to market a new campaign focused on supporting young…

Read More
24 February 2022
#itsmymove - Sport NZ launches campaign

Sport NZ has today launched #itsmymove - a campaign to help young women get and stay active their way.

Read More
15 February 2022
Learn about He Oranga Poutama (with live Q&A)

22 February 2022 10:00am   Are you passionate about growing Māori leadership in play, active recreation and sport? Are you keen to…

Read More
11 February 2022
Sector Update - 11 February

Kia ora koutou, Wherever you are in Aotearoa, we hope you have been able to make the most of the long weekends, keeping active with…

Read More
04 February 2022
COVID-19 Sector Update - 4 February 2022

Kia ora koutou,  We hope everyone is continuing to enjoy the summer period and, within the framework of the Red setting we now find…

Read More
02 February 2022
Sports-based holiday camp a hit with migrant families

An Auckland-based holiday camp filled with sports activities has proven so successful its young Asian migrant participants can’t wait…

Read More
24 January 2022
COVID-19 Sector Update - 24 January

Kia ora koutou,We hope you all enjoyed the weekend, and for those in Wellington, that you are continuing to enjoy Anniversary Monday…

Read More
19 January 2022
COVID-19 Sector Update - 19 January

Managed Isolation Quarantine and the COVID-19 Protection Framework Kia ora koutou, Happy New Year to you all. We hope you have enjoyed…

Read More
21 December 2021
Boost Programme ignites girls’ interest in new activities

Exposure to a range of sports has given intermediate student Maddisyn Sara both the confidence and encouragement to try new…

Read More
21 December 2021
Sector Update - 21 December

Kia ora koutou, This is our final Sector Update of 2021, and as is usual in the build-up to Christmas, I have been reflecting on the…

Read More
15 December 2021
Southland Fijian community celebrates and gets active

Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa funding and support from Active Southland has helped mark a special day on the calendar for the Southland…

Read More
10 December 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 10 December

Kia ora koutou,   It’s been almost a week since New Zealand moved into the COVID-19 Protection Framework (CPF). Thank you to everyone…

Read More
07 December 2021
Sector Update - 7 December 2021

Kia ora koutou, I hope everyone is taking care as we count down to the end of the year. Just a few short weeks to go before we can…

Read More
03 December 2021
Positive news for Play, Active Recreation and Sport as Covid Protection Framework is launched

Sport New Zealand looks forward to play, active recreation and sport resuming across all of Aotearoa New Zealand today, as the…

Read More
02 December 2021
Young people with Down Syndrome gain confidence in the water

A Taranaki teenager with Down Syndrome feared the water so much she refused to even enter the pool. Just months later, her mother has…

Read More
01 December 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 1 December

Kia ora koutou, Following on from Friday's update, we are pleased to now issue the full COVID-19 Protection Framework (CPF) guidance…

Read More
26 November 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 26 November

Kia ora koutou,I hope this email finds you well.  The guidance we are about to share will be much anticipated. It is the first update…

Read More
23 November 2021
New child safeguarding bite-sized learning modules

We have created a suite of new bite-sized modules as an introduction to key topics relating to child safeguarding and how to support a…

Read More
19 November 2021
Sector Update - 19 November

Kia ora koutou,  Sport NZ Monthly MIQ Allocation for Individuals  Sport NZ has recently been allocated 20 Managed Isolation…

Read More
18 November 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 18 November 2021

Kia ora koutou, I hope this email finds you well. It goes without saying that these are interesting and challenging times as we await…

Read More
15 November 2021
Dame Valerie Adams ‘Says Yes to Play’ as Sport NZ Highlights Play Week Aotearoa 2021

The focus is on fun for Play Week Ambassador Dame Valerie Adams as she encourages tamariki, whānau and communities to play their part…

Read More
10 November 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 10 November

Kia ora koutou,Thank you for your patience as we have worked through the most recent change in alert levels. In this Sector Update…

Read More
03 November 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 3 November

Kia ora koutou,With the Waikato now in Alert Level 3, Stage 2 and Auckland pending, we have updated our formal guidance to support…

Read More
02 November 2021
Healthy Active Learning to expand to 800 schools and kura

A successful physical activity and nutrition initiative for schools is being doubled in size. Healthy Active Learning is a joint…

Read More
01 November 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 1 November

Kia ora koutou, I hope you are safe and well as we begin a new week and month. This email summarises today’s media conference which…

Read More
28 October 2021
StarJam a game-changer for disabled young people

A new programme introduced to the Hawke’s Bay recently is changing the lives of a group of disabled young people and their familie

Read More
28 October 2021
Have your say on a National Physical Activity and Play Plan

Welcome to the National Physical Activity and Play Plan for Aotearoa survey Building on the broad sector engagement last year to…

Read More
28 October 2021
Sector Update - 28 October 2021

Kia ora koutou,      I hope everyone was able to enjoy the long weekend with their friends and whanau. It has been an unsettled…

Read More
19 October 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 19 October

Kia ora koutou, Firstly I wanted to thank you for your support over the weekend in achieving a record number of Covid-19 vaccinations…

Read More
15 October 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 15 October

Kia ora koutou, Thank you for your patience while we have worked with the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) to…

Read More
11 October 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 11 October

Sector Guidance for COVID-19   Kia ora koutou,  We hope you’re all doing well in your regions. Please find a short update following…

Read More
11 October 2021
Sport NZ announces increase in female board representation

Female voices in governance have been amplified across the sport and recreation sector, with the number of Sport NZ partner…

Read More
08 October 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 8 October

Kia ora koutou, We hope you are well, wherever in the country you may be. Our update today covers the following topics: Amended Alert…

Read More
06 October 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 6 October

Kia ora koutou, Thank you for your patience while we have worked with the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) around…

Read More
04 October 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 4 October

Kia ora koutou, As you will know from this afternoon’s media conference, the Prime Minister has announced changes to current alert…

Read More
30 September 2021
Sector Update - 30 September

Kia ora koutou,  With Auckland in Alert Level 3 and the rest of the country in Level 2, it’s a wait and see approach to further news…

Read More
30 September 2021
Sport NZ releases results of Diversity and Inclusion survey

Sport NZ has released the results of a new Diversity and Inclusion Survey, creating a benchmark for the play, active recreation and…

Read More
29 September 2021
Female skateboarders on the rise

Teenager Gala Baumfield spent most of her youth as the only female skateboarder at the skateparks she hung out at. Today, the…

Read More
22 September 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 22 September

Mōrena koutou katoa,   And a warm welcome to Alert Level 3 Tāmaki Makaurau.   You will know that as of…

Read More
10 September 2021
Play Your Part in a Great Return to Sport

While COVID-19 has put sport on hold for now, why not spend a bit of that extra time joining our upcoming Balance is Better webinar…

Read More
09 September 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 9 September

Kia ora koutou,  We hope you are well and acclimatising to life in both Alert Levels 2 and 4. This is a unique situation we find…

Read More
07 September 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 7 September

Kia ora koutou,  Thanks for your patience as we work through the finer details of the Alert Level 2 guidance for sport and…

Read More
06 September 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 6 September

Kia ora koutou,We hope you enjoyed the weekend, whether you were in Alert Level 3 or 4. As you will know from this afternoon’s…

Read More
06 September 2021
New Disability Inclusion Fund Announced To Support Disabled Tamariki and Rangatahi In Aotearoa

Disabled tamariki and rangatahi will benefit from a new $3.6m fund being launched by Sport NZ today.  The fund, to be invested over…

Read More
31 August 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 31 August

Kia ora koutou,Please find below a further update on COVID-19 as it relates to sport, recreation and play, including new Alert Level 3…

Read More
31 August 2021
Sector Update 31 August

Welcome to the latest update from Sport NZ bringing you news on the work of individuals and organisations from across the…

Read More
30 August 2021
Unstructured play at nature school builds children’s confidence and skills

Into Nature School founders Amy Lake and Hillary Paalvast dreamed of a school in the native bush where children could run free, be…

Read More
27 August 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 27 August

Kia ora koutou,We hope everyone is doing well in their respective bubbles. Unfortunately with today’s news, Auckland and Northland…

Read More
23 August 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 23 August

Kia ora koutou,In today’s Sector Update: The extension to COVID-19 Alert Level 4 Guidelines around mandatory record…

Read More
18 August 2021
COVID-19 Sector Update - 18 August

Kia ora koutou,This Sector Update contains new information on the following topics: New Public Health Order – mask wearing and…

Read More
17 August 2021
Sector Update - COVID-19 Alert Level 4

Kia ora koutou,With the news today that a case of community transition has been identified, with no known link to a border, we have…

Read More
09 August 2021
BoostedSport crowdfunding gets more girls exploring epic trails

Money raised from Sport NZ’s new crowdfunding platform BoostedSport will enable more girls from Journeys Central Otago to spend more…

Read More
02 August 2021
Pukutākaro programme helps tamariki lead play at Epuni School

Demolishing a school playground shouldn’t lead to more play opportunities, but that is exactly what happened at Epuni Primary School…

Read More
30 July 2021
Dream comes true for West Coast Special Olympians

A group of West Coast Special Olympians are a big step closer to attending their first ever national competition thanks to the new…

Read More
27 July 2021
Outdoor excursions life-changing for youth

An increasing number of young people in the Waikato region are exploring their backyards thanks to a social enterprise adventure…

Read More
27 July 2021
Govt support for upgrade of Eden Park player facilities

Minister for Sport and Recreation Hon Grant Robertson has announced funding to upgrade the player facilities at Eden Park ahead of…

Read More
22 July 2021
Sport NZ looks forward to Olympics in our backyard

With Brisbane confirmed as the host of the 2032 Olympic Games, Sport NZ and High Performance Sport NZ Chief Executive Raelene Castle…

Read More
02 July 2021
New crowdfunding platform a success for golf club

The new BoostedSport crowdfunding platform couldn’t have come along at a better time for central Canterbury’s Hororata Golf Club. Find…

Read More
01 July 2021
Canterbury Rams round up youth

Tū Manawa funding helps basketball role models connect with tamariki/rangatahi. More youth will get a chance to rub shoulders with…

Read More
01 July 2021
New crowdfunding platform for grassroots sport

Sport NZ has launched a new crowdfunding platform to help clubs and local groups fundraise for community projects, whether that’s new…

Read More
30 June 2021
Active Me fund already helping over 700 tamariki and rangatahi

Over $150,000 has already been distributed to 778 tamariki and rangatahi in Auckland and Northland and through the Active Me – Kia Tū…

Read More
21 June 2021
Drug Free Sport supported to deal with new doping challenges

Press Release from the Minister for Sport and Recreation Drug Free Sport New Zealand will receive a funding boost to respond to some…

Read More
21 June 2021
Sport NZ congratulates winners of New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards

Sport NZ congratulates the winners of the annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards, held in Hamilton this evening. "Tonight is…

Read More
17 June 2021
Five new directors appointed to the board of Sport NZ

Duane Kale, Karen Vercoe, Rakesh Naidoo, Robyn Cockburn and Suri Bartlett have been appointed to the board of Sport NZ. They replace…

Read More
15 June 2021
Surf therapy changes mindsets

Teenager Liam has managed to face his fear of water thanks to a surf therapy programme in Northland.  Liam has been involved in the Te…

Read More
09 June 2021
New ways to play keeping Favona School students active

Children at Favona School in Mangere have new ways to be active, develop skills and have fun through play thanks to a new Tū Manawa…

Read More
31 May 2021
Finalists announced for 2021 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards

Sport NZ has announced the finalists for its annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards, which celebrate individuals and…

Read More
26 May 2021
Yoga transforms students' lives

Yoga classes are transforming the lives of young people at one school in the Taranaki region. Waitara’s Manukorihi Intermediate has…

Read More
20 May 2021
Sport NZ recognises Sir Eion and Lady Jan Edgar

The Sport NZ Board hosted a special event in Queenstown today to acknowledge and celebrate Sir Eion and Lady Jan Edgar for their…

Read More
18 May 2021
Rebecca Rolls joins Sport NZ as Diversity & Inclusion Manager

Sport NZ has appointed Rebecca Rolls as its new Diversity and Inclusion Manager, responsible for the organisation’s Women and Girls…

Read More
05 May 2021
Improving health and wellbeing for girls giving rugby league a go

Manurewa Marlins Rugby Club has had tremendous success with a new programme – Mareikura – that encourages women and girls to give…

Read More
29 April 2021
New study finds New Zealand leading the world in gender balance of sports coverage

Sport NZ and Isentia have today released the first report from a major study into the gender balance of coverage and reporting of…

Read More
23 April 2021
Well Wāhine Week brings community together

An idea born from the aspirations of inspiring Tairāwhiti women, Well Wāhine Week was an initiative delivered by Sport Gisborne…

Read More
21 April 2021
10 more sports join collective stand on youth sport

Another 10 national sporting bodies have joined NZ Cricket, NZ Football, Hockey NZ, Netball NZ and NZ Rugby in backing the Balance is…

Read More
16 April 2021
Sport NZ announces details of Governance and Organisational Review

Details have today been released of the Governance and Organisational Review of the Sport NZ Group (Sport NZ and High Performance…

Read More
31 March 2021
New Te Kīwai Fund: A partnership with Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu

Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa is pleased to announce its partnership with Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu to provide a new $850,000 Government…

Read More
23 March 2021
Let’s put last year’s disrupted season behind us

After a 2020 winter season heavily disrupted by COVID-19, Sport NZ and five of the country’s largest participation sports are calling…

Read More
16 March 2021
Sport Wellington reveals new identity

Identity reflects the organisation’s focus on equity, inclusion and the power of physical activity to transform lives. On Tuesday 16…

Read More
09 March 2021
Entries open for 2021 NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

Entries are now open for the annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards, with two new categories for 2021.  Every year,…

Read More
05 March 2021
Sport NZ launches $2.15m partnership with Variety NZ to reduce financial barriers to physical activity

Two-year pilot to support tamariki and rangatahi in high need communities Sport NZ has today launched a two-year partnership with…

Read More
16 December 2020
Sport NZ announces new initiatives to keep sport and recreation safe, fair and inclusive

Sport NZ has announced a set of integrity initiatives to ensure sport and recreation remain safe, fair and inclusive for all New…

Read More
23 November 2020
Register for the iCoachKids Conference 3-4 December

iCoachKids has announced the 4th Annual International Conference. This will be a free online event which can be booked below: Day…

Read More
19 November 2020
Investment for player facilities and other venue upgrades for ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022

Sport NZ is pleased to play a key role in the announcement of the $2 million in Government funding for player facilities at the five…

Read More
17 November 2020
Kaupapa Maori Response Fund – Media Release

E haumi ana a Ihi Aotearoa i te $7 miriona pūtea tāpiri ki tētahi mahere hou mō te oranga o te Māori Kua whakaputaina e Ihi Aotearoa…

Read More
05 November 2020
Second Community Resilience Fund supports 2070 organisations

More than 2,000 play, active recreation and sport organisations across Aotearoa New Zealand have received relief funding from Sport…

Read More
04 November 2020
Raelene Castle appointed CEO of Sport NZ

Raelene Castle ONZM has been appointed as the next CEO of Sport NZ. She replaces Peter Miskimmin, who steps down on 11 December after…

Read More
08 October 2020
New research report on building cultural inclusion

A new report which highlights key themes that emerged from conversations with Muslim girls and women.

Read More
06 October 2020
Last chance to register for this week’s Sport NZ Women + Girls Summit

Over 750 already registered for three-day event. Registrations for day one close 10.00am Wednesday. More than 750 people have…

Read More
27 September 2020
Sport NZ encourages people to make the most of daylight savings

New COVID-19 research highlights post-lockdown decline in participation levels Sport NZ is encouraging New Zealanders to take full…

Read More
11 September 2020
Sport NZ announces 2020 sector award winners

Sport NZ congratulates the category winners of the 2020 New Zealand Sport and Recreation awards. Originally scheduled to be held in…

Read More
28 August 2020
Sport NZ recognises outstanding leaders

Sport NZ has announced the two winners of the leadership categories from its annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards. Scheduled…

Read More
24 August 2020
Sport NZ’s new $68 million community fund opens today

Applications are now open for Sport NZ’s new fund – Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa – for community-based programmes and projects targeting…

Read More
20 August 2020
Welcome to Sport NZ’s website

Thanks for coming to our newly designed website. We’ve updated our site to make it more accessible, inclusive, relevant and user…

Read More
19 August 2020
Sport NZ COVID-19 fund provides $1.85 million to organisations beyond its traditional partners

More than $1.85m has been distributed to 38 national organisations through Sport NZ’s Exceptional Systems Support Fund (ESS). Designed…

Read More
18 August 2020
New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards 2020

Sport New Zealand is pleased to announce the finalists for the NZ Sport and Recreation Awards 2020. The awards were due to be…

Read More
14 August 2020
Community sport and recreation under COVID-19 alert level restrictions

Sport NZ is encouraging all New Zealanders to remain physically active, but to follow the Government’s guidelines for their region’s…

Read More
08 August 2020
Terms of reference for gymnastics independent review and management of complaints

Gymnastics New Zealand (Gymnastics NZ) has released the terms of reference for the Independent Review to be conducted by David Howman.…

Read More
06 August 2020
Save the date: sport nz women and girls summit 2020

Sport NZ Women and Girls Summit 2020Wednesday 7 October – Friday 9 October 20201.00pm – 4.00pm daily Sport NZ is pleased to announce…

Read More
06 August 2020
Save the date: Sport NZ Women and Girls Summit 2020

Sport NZ Women and Girls Summit 2020Wednesday 7 October – Friday 9 October 20201.00pm – 4.00pm daily Sport NZ is pleased to announce…

Read More
05 August 2020
Peter Miskimmin to step down as CEO of Sport NZ

Peter Miskimmin has resigned as CEO of Sport NZ and will step down from his role in December. He has served as CEO of Sport NZ…

Read More
31 July 2020
Sport NZ set to unveil major upgrade to integrity measures

Sport NZ will shortly launch major new initiatives to help sport and active recreation bodies at all levels of the sector strengthen…

Read More
10 July 2020
Details of national league funding released

On Tuesday, Minister for Sport and Recreation Grant Robertson announced $80m in funding targeted at all levels of the Play, Active…

Read More
10 July 2020
Details of national league funding released

On Tuesday, Minister for Sport and Recreation Grant Robertson announced $80m in funding targeted at all levels of the Play, Active…

Read More
07 July 2020
$80 million for sport recovery at all levels

Grant Robertson has today announced the first major release of funding from the $265 million Sport Recovery Package announced at…

Read More
04 June 2020
Sport NZ provides $4.6 million in financial relief

Sport NZ has provided a total of $4.6 million to the Wellington Phoenix, Vodafone Warriors, Super Rugby clubs and the ANZ Premiership…

Read More
04 June 2020
Sport NZ provides $4.6 million in financial relief

Sport NZ has provided a total of $4.6 million to the Wellington Phoenix, Vodafone Warriors, Super Rugby clubs and the ANZ Premiership…

Read More
17 May 2020
Budget 2020

Minister for Sport and Recreation Grant Robertson has today announced a $264.6m investment into the Sport and Recreation sector as…

Read More
12 May 2020
Updated guidance on community sport at alert level 2

Following yesterday’s announcement on the transition to Alert Level 2, Sport NZ can confirm that the 10 person gathering limit does…

Read More
12 May 2020
Updated guidance on community sport at alert level 2

Following yesterday’s announcement on the transition to Alert Level 2, Sport NZ can confirm that the 10 person gathering limit does…

Read More
07 May 2020
Sport NZ announces further @25 million short-term relief pac

Primary focus on clubs and regional organisations Sport NZ has created a $25 million package to provide further short-term relief for…

Read More
24 April 2020
Guidance for physical activity at COVID-19 Alert Level 3

Sport NZ has this afternoon published public guidance on how people can remain physically active during COVID-19 Alert Level 3.

Read More
17 April 2020
Decisions made on urgent turf maintenance

This media release has been republished from Beehive.govt.nz

Read More
09 April 2020
More information on Alert Level 3 released

This update has been republished from covid19.govt.nz

Read More
03 April 2020
Funding certainty for sports through COVID-19

This media release has been republished from Beehive.govt.nz

Read More
10 March 2020
High Performance Sport NZ endorses youth sport campaign

"Specialising later is not going to reduce New Zealand's chances of winning on the world stage"

Read More
04 March 2020
Novel Coronavirus / COVID-19 Update

Novel Coronavirus / COVID-19 has reached New Zealand although the likelihood of a widespread outbreak remains low-moderate.

Read More
16 January 2020
Beatrice Faumuinā appointed to Sport NZ Board

Beatrice Faumuinā ONZM OLY has been appointed to the board of Sport NZ for a term of three years.

Read More
17 December 2019
Cameron Leslie appointed to intern role on Sport NZ Board

Cameron Leslie MNZM has been appointed as the new intern on the Sport NZ board - a position created by Sport NZ in 2017 as part of…

Read More
10 December 2019
Coaches of Match Officials Residential Course

New ground was broken from 20 – 22 November at Pulman Lodge in South Auckland with the piloting of a residential course for Coaches of…

Read More
14 October 2019
Sport New Zealand Launches Disability Plan

Sport NZ's Disability Plan has been launched at the Halberg Games in Auckland today, October 11.

Read More
07 October 2019
Nine projects to receive funding support

Exciting projects such as Volleyfest, a Girl Guiding Community Programme and off-road mountain biking are amongst those selected by…

Read More
26 September 2019
Sport NZ announces new strategy to get Every Body Active

Sport NZ has today released a new strategy and vision to get Every Body Active in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Read More
23 September 2019
Sport Integrity Review

Sport NZ undertook a public consultation on sport integrity, seeking the views of a wide range of organisations and individuals…

Read More
20 September 2019
Healthy Active Learning set to roll out in early 2020

Healthy Active Learning is a new $47.6 million initiative that will be delivered as part of the Government's 2019 Wellbeing Budget

Read More
18 September 2019
Introducing our Sport NZ Balance is Better Champions

The Sport NZ Balance is Better Champions programme continues for another year with some new and existing faces.

Read More
15 August 2019
Introducing the Sport NZ Women + Girls Summit 2019

Introducing the inaugural Sport NZ Women + Girls Summit 2019. The one-day event will take place on 7 October 2019 at Te Papa,…

Read More
19 July 2019
SportNZ recognises innovative ways to get young women active

Give-it-a-go skateboarding workshops and inclusive ability netball are amongst the innovative ideas selected by Sport NZ

Read More
25 June 2019
Sport NZ congratulates sport and recreation award winners

Sport NZ congratulates the winners of its annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards

Read More
21 June 2019
Sport NZ announces joint delivery partners for annual event

Sport NZ announces joint delivery partners for annual event focusing on women and girls in sport and active recreation

Read More
19 June 2019
2019 Finalists for Community Impact Award

In its 12th year, the 2019 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Auckland on Monday 24 June 2019.

Read More
19 June 2019
Finalists for Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion Award

In its 12th year, the 2019 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Auckland on Monday 24 June 2019.

Read More
19 June 2019
2019 Finalists for commercial partnership award

In its 12th year, the 2019 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Auckland on Monday 24 June 2019.

Read More
19 June 2019
2019 Finalists for Event Excellence Award

In its 12th year, the 2019 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Auckland on Monday 24 June 2019.

Read More
19 June 2019
2019 Finalists for the Future Leaders Scholarship

The continued success of play, active recreation and sport in New Zealand depends on great leadership within our sector.

Read More
18 April 2019
Innovations for Young Women

A new fund from Sport NZ designed to support and develop innovative ideas to engage young women to get and stay active

Read More
17 April 2019
Sport NZ is doubling the reach of its Play.sport pilot

Sport NZ doubles number of schools trialling fresh approach to PE and other physical activity

Read More
15 April 2019
Finalists announced for 2019 NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

Sport NZ has announced the finalists for its annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards

Read More
10 April 2019
Nominations for Sport NZ's 2019 Leadership Programmes open

Nominations are now open for Future Leaders and Women in Leadership programmes, and close on 30 April.

Read More
04 April 2019
Funding Launched to help young women get and stay active

Two new funds designed to get more young women physically active through play, active recreation and sport have launched today.

Read More
28 March 2019
Tomorrow's Schools Review

The Independent Taskforce reported its findings to the Minister of Education in November 2018.

Read More
26 February 2019
Why we need to tackle early specialisation

The move by the North Harbour Rugby to disband its under-14 rep team has created significant debate.

Read More
04 February 2019
Sport and Recreation Awards 2019

Entries are now open for the 12th New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards 2019

Read More
06 December 2018
Women and girls strategy

Our Government is committed to championing equality for women and girls in Aotearoa New Zealand. We know there are clear inequalities…

Read More
06 December 2018
Sport NZ releases report on athletes' rights and welfare

Sport NZ has today released a report by sports lawyer Stephen Cottrell on elite athletes’ rights and welfare. Commissioned as part of…

Read More
16 November 2018
Sir John Anderson (1945 - 2018)

Sport NZ pays tribute to Sir John Anderson, who passed away on Tuesday night, and extends its condolences to his family.

Read More
30 October 2018
Sport NZ seeks public views on sport integrity

Sport NZ is calling on anyone involved in sport to share their thoughts on a range of integrity issues through an online survey

Read More
16 October 2018
Spotlight on Sport: Athletics

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years.

Read More
05 October 2018
Physical activity is tied to healthy mental wellbeing

New research from Sport New Zealand shows that physically active Kiwis are more likely to have good mental health

Read More
17 July 2018
Sport NZ Graduate Programme: A solid start

Hi, I’m Conor Gilchrist. I’m approaching the halfway point of my second year on the Sport NZ Graduate Programme. Before joining…

Read More
12 July 2018
Sport NZ Graduate Programme: an awesome opportunity to learn and develop

Kia ora, my name is Maddi McLean and I am currently halfway through my first year on the Sport NZ Graduate Programme. I studied a…

Read More
04 July 2018
Sport NZ Graduate Programme: A job in paradise

This is a story from one of our past graduates, who participated in Sport NZ's Graduate Programme.

Read More
28 June 2018
Sport NZ releases new participation survey

Sport NZ has today released the first report from its new Active NZ participation survey

Read More
18 June 2018
A week to recognise the volunteers who keep sport moving

Of the 1.2 million people who volunteer in NZ every year, 5 out of 6 are giving their time to the sport and recreation sector.

Read More
28 May 2018
Sport NZ congratulates Sport and Recreation Award winners

Sport NZ congratulates the winners of the annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards, held in Wellington this evening.

Read More
23 May 2018
Finalists for High Performance Campaign Award

Next week we celebrate the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards in Wellington.

Read More
21 May 2018
Research shines light on enjoyment (or not) of school cross country

- Enjoyment lags behind other activities - Findings suggest parents play a key role

Read More
17 May 2018
Finalists for Innovation Excellence Award

In its 11th year, the 2018 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Wellington on Monday 28 May.

Read More
14 May 2018
Jennah Wootten to join Sport New Zealand

Sport New Zealand (Sport NZ) has appointed Jennah Wootten as GM Partnerships & Communication.

Read More
10 May 2018
Finalists for Event Excellence Award

In its 11th year, the 2018 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Wellington on Monday 28 May.

Read More
03 May 2018
Finalists for Community Impact Award

In its 11th year, the 2018 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Wellington on Monday 28 May.

Read More
27 April 2018
Finalists for Commercial Partnership Award

In its 11th year, the 2018 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Wellington on Monday 28 May.

Read More
17 April 2018
Spotlight on Sport: Badminton

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the winter sport options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years old.

Read More
09 April 2018
Finalists announced for NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

The NZ Sport and Recreation Awards capture and acknowledge the exemplary work taking place across the sport and recreation sector.

Read More
03 April 2018
Spotlight on Sport: Netball

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years old.

Read More
26 March 2018
Spotlight on Sport: Rugby

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years old.

Read More
23 March 2018
Spotlight on Sport: Football

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years old.

Read More
23 March 2018
Biggest sporting showcase coming to Eden Park

Playing, sharing; making friends and having fun. That's the underlying philosophy for New Zealand Cricket (NZC)'s Biggest Sporting…

Read More
21 March 2018
Spotlight on Sport: Hockey

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years old.

Read More
15 March 2018
Spotlight on Sport: Basketball

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years.

Read More
31 January 2018
Sport NZ announces Future Leaders Scholarship

Sport NZ is excited to announce a new $10,000 scholarship to be awarded to an emerging leader as part of this year’s New Zealand Sport…

Read More
18 December 2017
Hawke's Bay getting its skates on

Napier City Council listened to the local community to design its two-stage Marine Parade redevelopment project

Read More
11 December 2017
Making it easier for kids to get active at home

Sport Canterbury has been trialling a SportStart Home Kit to help busy parents to support their kids to get active at home.

Read More
06 December 2017
Sport NZ welcomes Russia ban

Sport NZ welcomes the IOC's decision to ban the Russian Olympic Committee sending a team to the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang

Read More
24 November 2017
Kua hinga te totara o te Wao nui a Tane

It is with sadness that we advise and acknowledge the passing of a great Ngāti Whakaue rangatira Pihopa Kingi.

Read More
24 November 2017
Staying safe at the beach this summer

Surf Life Saving New Zealand CEO Paul Dalton says last summer was one of the worst in many years, with 19 beach drownings between…

Read More
19 November 2017
Recognising New Zealand children's right to play

Sport NZ has released a set of principles that recognise, and will be used to protect, the right of young New Zealanders to play.

Read More
13 November 2017
Award for 'shifterhood' empowering young women

Sport NZ congratulates Wellington City Council for winning the Outstanding Recreation Programme Award for its SHIFT initiative

Read More
02 November 2017
Space for youth at new Koraunui Stokes Valley community hub

The Koraunui Stokes Valley community hub brings multiple community services together in one place

Read More
31 October 2017
NZ leading by example on coach development

Quality coaching is a key factor in keeping young people participating in sport. Look no further than NZ to see how it can be done

Read More
25 October 2017
Toitu Poneke: Standing tall and proud in the community

The Toitu Poneke Community and Sports Centre - or 'The Hub' - has restored 'the heart beat' of a critical community facility

Read More
16 October 2017
Spotlight on Sport: Wrap-up

Warm weather and lighter nights mean more time to be outside, and team sports are a great way to stay connected over the summer.

Read More
12 October 2017
Spotlight on Sport: Tennis

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years.

Read More
09 October 2017
Spotlight on Sport: Cricket

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years.

Read More
06 October 2017
Spotlight on Sport: BMX

Sport NZ is taking a look at some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years.

Read More
04 October 2017
Spotlight on Summer Sport: Surf Life Saving

Sport New Zealand is taking a look some of the options available for kids aged 5 to 8 years.

Read More
02 October 2017
Sports bodies join together to change youth sport

Joint media release from Sport NZ, NZ Cricket, NZ Football, Hockey NZ, Netball NZ and NZ Rugby

Read More
25 September 2017
Balance is Better

Recently Time magazine published an insightful article on the professionalisation of youth sports in America.

Read More
20 September 2017
International accolades for Kiwi's play projects

Sport NZ congratulates Heather Knox, whose work encouraging Kiwi kids to get active has received global recognition.

Read More
28 August 2017
Collaboration a key feature of The Peak

The Peak Te Pumanawa o Rototuna is an exemplar of a collaborative approach to regional facilities planning

Read More
10 August 2017
Meet the team: Jo Colin

Building on her lifelong love of physical activity brought Jo Colin to her current role at Sport NZ

Read More
08 August 2017
Living Well' - a collaborative approach for Wellington

Living Well is based on Sport NZ’s locally-led delivery approach, together with information about the region from sources

Read More
07 August 2017
Remembering Sir John Graham (1935 - 2017)

Sir John Graham leaves an immense legacy through his efforts and achievements as a sportsman, educator and administrator.

Read More
31 July 2017
Racing Act - proposed legislative changes

This Regulatory Impact Statement has been prepared by Sport New Zealand (Sport NZ) and provides an analysis of options for improving…

Read More
27 July 2017
Sport NZ enables knowledge sharing with Sport Singapore

Sport NZ recently hosted a senior leader from Sport Singapore to collaborate and share insights with sector organisations

Read More
27 July 2017
Global recognition for Lower Hutt project

A Hutt City Council project is having a dramatic impact on the lives of children from high-deprivation communities

Read More
21 July 2017
Celebrating the Te Araroa Trail

More than 550 people have completed New Zealand's 3,000km national trail over the past year

Read More
28 June 2017
Play.sport baseline evaluation

Sport NZ has published an independent baseline evaluation of the first year of Play.sport.

Read More
22 June 2017
STORY: National Volunteer Week, Delwyn and Melvin Rameka

Sport NZ acknowledges the vital contribution volunteers make in sport and recreation

Read More
22 June 2017
STORY: National Volunteer Week, Ken Coulson

Sport NZ acknowledges the vital contribution volunteers make in sport and recreation

Read More
21 June 2017
STORY: National Volunteer Week, Sacha Wright

Sport NZ acknowledges the vital contribution volunteers make in sport and recreation

Read More
19 June 2017
STORY: National Volunteer Week, Marlene Ingram

Sport NZ acknowledges the vital contribution volunteers make in sport and recreation

Read More
19 June 2017
STORY: National Volunteer Week, Cliff Martin

Sport NZ acknowledges the vital contribution volunteers make in sport and recreation

Read More
31 May 2017
Move now for lifelong benefits

It doesn't take an awful lot to get kids active and having fun, and the lifelong benefits are huge, says Sport NZ's Jo Colin.

Read More
29 May 2017
Sport NZ congratulates Sport and Recreation Award winners

Sport NZ congratulates winners of the tenth anniversary Sport and Recreation Awards in Auckland this evening.

Read More
29 May 2017
Sport and Recreation Awards Winners

Sport NZ would like to congratulate the winners of our tenth anniversary Sport and Recreation Awards held in Auckland this evening

Read More
25 May 2017
Innovation Excellence

We're looking forward to celebrating the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards in Auckland next Monday 29 May.

Read More
23 May 2017
High Performance Campaign

Next week we celebrate the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards in Auckland.

Read More
23 May 2017
Being active is child's play

The Government’s Big Change Starts Small public awareness campaign has great ideas for including more play in children’s lives.

Read More
18 May 2017
Event excellence

In just two weeks' time we celebrate the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards in Auckland.

Read More
17 May 2017
New Zealand and Japan sign sport relationship agreement

JSA Commissioner Daichi Suzuki, PM Bill English and Sport NZ CE Peter Miskimmin   New Zealand and Japan today signed a Memorandum of…

Read More
17 May 2017
Recruiting coaches from overseas

Annually Immigration NZ review their Essential Skills in Demand Lists to facilitate the entry of appropriately skilled people

Read More
16 May 2017
Community Impact

On 29 May, we celebrate the tenth anniversary of the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards in Auckland.

Read More
15 May 2017
Balance was key to Snell's success

25 young Wellington athletes were fortunate to hear Peter share some of his stories & life-lessons at his visit to Te Papa Museum

Read More
11 May 2017
Commercial Partnership Award

In its tenth anniversary year, the 2017 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards will be held in Auckland on 29 May.

Read More
06 April 2017
Finalists selected for NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

The 16 finalists for the 2017 NZ Sport and Recreation Awards exemplify the exciting and valuable work happening in the sector

Read More
22 March 2017
Celebrating one year of Play.sport

Prime Minister Bill English, Sport and Recreation Minister Jonathan Coleman and Sport NZ celebrate one year of Play.sport

Read More
14 March 2017
Becoming a workplace athlete

Sport NZ has launched a new online course specifically designed for new entrants to the workforce.

Read More
14 December 2016
Lesley Murdoch first woman to win lifetime achievement award

Sport NZ was delighted to honour Christchurch sportswoman & commentator Lesley Murdoch at NZ Sports Journalists Association Awards

Read More
02 December 2016
Supporting older people to stay active

Sport and Recreation Minister Jonathan Coleman welcomes the release of a document on supporting older people to stay active

Read More
20 September 2016
Volunteering Insights Report

The GEMBA sports and entertainment report (GSER) is driven by the need to make better-informed, fact-based decisions.

Read More
19 August 2016
It takes a community to raise a champion

Peter Miskimmin, CEO Sport NZ and dual Olympian (Hockey - 1984, 1992)

Read More
08 August 2016
Time for Natalie Rooney and South Canterbury to celebrate

Sport NZ CE Peter Miskimmin says South Canterbury can be extremely proud of Natalie Rooney, who won a silver at the Rio Olympics

Read More
11 July 2016
Plan heralds new approach to keeping young people active

Sport New Zealand has today released a "plan of attack" for keeping young people in New Zealand active.

Read More
15 June 2016
Interactive tool to help get Kiwis more active

Sport and Recreation Minister Jonathan Coleman welcomes Sport NZ’s new online tool which will help communities and the sector to…

Read More
31 May 2016
Major sports call for action to change youth sport

Public awareness campaign launches today. Sport NZ to make support for changes a condition of investment into all sports.

Read More
11 April 2016
Connections tackles critical thinking for sport leaders

Over 160 sport & rec leaders will gather in Wellington over the next 2 days for Sport New Zealand's Connections 2016 conference.

Read More
11 April 2016
Awards recognise outstanding achievement in NZ sport & rec

Excellence and outstanding achievement in sport and recreation was recognised during the annual NZ Sport and Recreation Awards.

Read More
10 March 2016
A fresh approach to PE and sport in schools and communities

Sport NZ has today launched a new initiative aimed at ensuring young people are getting quality PE and sport at school

Read More
19 February 2016
Forum focuses on the future of sport and rec in Auckland

More than 100 sport and recreation leaders have gathered in Auckland today to discuss the future of sport in the city

Read More
18 February 2016
Williamson and Ko worthy recipients of Halberg Awards

HPSNZ Chief Executive Alex Baumann has congratulated Kane Williamson and Lydia Ko for their outstanding achievement

Read More
18 February 2016
McCullum's Halberg Leadership Award well deserved

Brendon McCullum has been honoured at the 53rd Halberg Awards with the Sport New Zealand Leadership Award

Read More
17 February 2016
Finalists announced for NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

Celebrating sporting sector excellence in commercial partnerships, communication, community impact, events, innovation and more.

Read More
10 February 2016
Top international award for Archery NZ stalwart

Carole Hicks has been honoured by her sport at the highest level after being named the World Archery Volunteer of the Year (2015).

Read More
18 December 2015
Top 10 articles you may have missed (18 December)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
11 December 2015
Sport NZ rings changes to ensure Kiwis stay in sport and rec

Sport New Zealand confirms investment of around $43m a year for the next four years

Read More
11 December 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (11 December)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
10 December 2015
Awards recognise outstanding sports journalism

Andrew Cornaga received the Supreme Award at tonight's Sir Terry McLean National Sports Journalism Awards held in Auckland.

Read More
09 December 2015
New Zealand working hard to buck inactivity trends

Baroness Sue Campbell, says she's pleased to see New Zealand working hard to keep young people active

Read More
07 December 2015
Top 8 informal summer games

One of the great things about a Kiwi summer is the improvised sport that takes place on the beach or in the back yard.

Read More
04 December 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (4 December)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
01 December 2015
Keeping up with #connectingcoaches

Featuring high profile coaches from New Zealand and abroad, Sport NZ's 'Connecting Coaches' convention will be a landmark event.

Read More
26 November 2015
Trans-Tasman croquet rivalry set to ignite

The New Zealand versus Australia rivalry continues with the inaugural Golf Croquet Trans-Tasman Test Series in Nelson.

Read More
26 November 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (27 November)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
20 November 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (20 November)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
18 November 2015
Sport New Zealand pays tribute to Jonah Lomu

Sport leaders say the sporting world has lost a giant with the passing of former All Black great Jonah Lomu today at the age of 40

Read More
13 November 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (13 November)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
12 November 2015
Sport and rec sector makes significant economic contribution

Sport and recreation also make a significant contribution to New Zealand's economy, according to new research.

Read More
12 November 2015
Sports stars rally to fight obesity

'Big change starts small' is the theme of a public awareness campaign to help tackle childhood obesity.

Read More
09 November 2015
People of New Zealand Sport: Kenny McFadden

McFadden quickly forged a career as player, coach and is now best known as mentor for Oklahoma City Thunder NBA star Steven Adams.

Read More
06 November 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (6 November)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
04 November 2015
Steve Hansen to headline landmark coaching convention

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen will address 600 diverse coaches at Sport NZ's 'Connecting Coaches' convention

Read More
02 November 2015
Gearing up for summer sport: Ultimate Frisbee

Ultimate Frisbee has come a long way from when Iain Stewart first played it in 1999.

Read More
30 October 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (30 October)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
30 October 2015
Congratulations to world champion All Blacks

The All Blacks have made New Zealand proud again and etched their place in rugby history by winning the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Read More
23 October 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (23 October)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
20 October 2015
Gearing up for summer sport: Gaelic Football

We caught Wellington Gaelic Football & Hurling Association Vice President Davey Rynne to find out how the sport is catching on

Read More
09 October 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (9 October)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
08 October 2015
Gearing up for summer sport: Cricket

As rugby and football posts come down and the days get longer it's almost time for summer sports to begin.

Read More
02 October 2015
Top 10 stories you may have missed (2 October)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
01 October 2015
NZ to host major international golf tournament

Sport and Rec Minister Jonathan Coleman welcomes the announcement that NZ will host the 2017 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship

Read More
25 September 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (25 September)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
18 September 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed -18 September 2015

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
11 September 2015
10 sports stories you may have missed (11 September)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
08 September 2015
Carter to be included in ITU Hall of Fame

Olympic gold medalist & ITU World Cup Champion Hamish Carter has been included in the list of inductees into the ITU Hall of Fame

Read More
04 September 2015
People of New Zealand Sport: Paul Strang

Paul Strang is now making his mark developing the next generation of New Zealand sporting stars through Pathway to Podium.

Read More
04 September 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (4 September)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
28 August 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (28 August)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
28 August 2015
Health and safety reform bill update

Parliament recently passed the Health and Safety Reform Bill

Read More
21 August 2015
People of New Zealand Sport: Lyn Ryan

After over 30 years involvement in the Special Olympics movement, Lyn Ryan is showing no signs of slowing down.

Read More
21 August 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (21 August)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
21 August 2015
Supporting Kiwis kids to be active, healthy and happy

Sport NZ says ensuring Kiwi kids have active lives will be an important part of a wider initiative to tackle obesity.

Read More
21 August 2015
Tackling childhood obesity

In looking to tackle obesity the Government is taking a broad approach with a focus on food, the environment & being active

Read More
14 August 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (14 August)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
07 August 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (7 August)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
30 July 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (31 July)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
23 July 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (24 July)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
23 July 2015
The people of New Zealand Sport: Ofisa Tonu'u

Now with his professional playing days behind him, Tonu'u is giving back to sport at the grassroots level

Read More
17 July 2015
Top 10 sports stories you may have missed (17 July)

Here's our list of the 'top 10 sports stories you may have missed!'

Read More
17 July 2015
The people of New Zealand sport: Shane Cameron

As a boxer, Shane Cameron was as tough and determined as they come - but it's now his work outside the ring that is turning heads.

Read More
13 July 2015
The future of sport looking bright in Auckland

College Sport Auckland CEO Dave Currie talks on how Auckland's young people are getting ready for a life of sport and recreation.

Read More
08 July 2015
Top ten sport stories you may have missed (10 July 2015)

Think you've caught up on all the week's sports news from across New Zealand? Think again with our list of the 'top 10 sports stories…

Read More
03 July 2015
Sport NZ calls for good sideline behaviour

Sport New Zealand CE Peter Miskimmin is reminding parents and other supporters to be mindful of their behaviour on the sidelines

Read More
10 June 2015
Boost for sport in Auckland with opening of Sport Central

Sport in Auckland has received a boost with the opening of Sport Central, a new hub for sports bodies to live and work together.

Read More
14 April 2015
Sport sector exploring customers' changing needs

Understanding and responding to the customer's changing needs to future proof New Zealand sport

Read More
14 April 2015
Awards recognise outstanding achievement in sport and rec

Excellence in sport and recreation in New Zealand were recognised at the annual Sport and Recreation Awards in Auckland.

Read More
20 March 2015
New strategy aims to preserve our proud sporting heritage

Sport NZ has launched a new Strategic Plan (2015-20) to ensure NZ remains one of the world's most successful sporting nations

Read More
14 March 2015
Sport and recreation still a big part of Kiwi lives

Sport and recreation continue to play a big part in the lives of Kiwis, according to the latest Active New Zealand survey.

Read More
25 February 2015
Finalists announced for NZ Sport and Recreation Awards

Celebrating sporting sector excellence in commercial partnerships, communication, community impact, events and innovation.

Read More
17 February 2015
Seb Coe on young people and sport, anti-doping and more

Former champion athlete Seb Coe shares his views on inspiring young people to take up sport and the barriers they face

Read More
12 February 2015
Sport NZ honours Barbara Kendall with Leadership Award

Barbara Kendall has been honoured at the 52nd Halberg Awards with the Sport New Zealand Leadership Award

Read More
09 February 2015
Still places left for the 2015 Women in sport governance mentor programme

The programme provides ten hours of one on one support from experienced practitioners across a twelve month period.

Read More
23 December 2014
Kiwis attempt world-firsts with Sport NZ Hillary grants

Seven teams will test their mettle when they embark on some world-firsts as part of Sport NZ's Hillary Expeditions.

Read More
18 December 2014
Governance success stories wanted: win governance consulting

We are developing some further governance resources in 2015 and want be support these with stories from the sector.

Read More
16 December 2014
Charitable registration for sport and recreation organisations - update December 2014

Recent decisions by the Charities Registration Board have raised questions about the standing of sport and the desirability of sport…

Read More
15 December 2014
2015 women in governance scholarships & mentor programme

The recipients of the 2015 women in governance scholarships and the participants in the 2015 mentor programme.

Read More
16 October 2014
Entries open for the eighth NZ sport and recreation awards

The New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards celebrate excellence in the sport and recreation sector.

Read More
15 October 2014
Now open: 2015 Women in sport governance scholarships and mentor programme applications

Applications are now open for the 2015 intake as part of the Sport New Zealand women in governance programme.

Read More
11 August 2014
Updated: Health & Safety Reforms - more info from Worksafe

An early advisory about the likely effect on the sport and recreation sector of the Health and Safety at Work Act.

Read More
23 July 2014
Auckland looks to become the world's most active city

Auckland Sport recently released its strategic plan, which aims to make Auckland the world's most active city by 2020.

Read More
30 May 2014
Sports talent development programme announced

The creation of New Zealand's first nationwide talent development programme, called Pathway to Podium, has been announced today.

Read More
27 May 2014
Connecting coaches - an insight into the Young Coaches Forum

Young coaches and staff from Sport New Zealand and Unitec recently got together to discuss the Growing Coaches programme.

Read More
27 May 2014
Connecting coaches - an insight into the Young Coaches Forum

Young coaches and staff from Sport New Zealand and Unitec recently got together to discuss the Growing Coaches programme. Filmed at…

Read More
24 May 2014
Steve Tew wins prestigious C.K. Doig Leadership Award

Outstanding achievement across the sport and rec sector has been recognised at the annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards.

Read More
24 May 2014
Avantidrome the latest jewel in New Zealand's sporting crown

NZ's HP athletes have the benefit of another world-class sports facility with the Royal opening of the Avantidrome in Cambridge

Read More
24 May 2014
Volunteers sought for ICC Cricket World Cup 2015

Organisers of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 are looking for volunteers to join their team.

Read More
24 May 2014
Kiwi adventurers to take on the untamed White Wave in Nepal

A team of Kiwi adventurers will attempt to summit the unclimbed 6815 metre peak of Anidesha Chuli in Nepal

Read More
24 May 2014
New safeguards to prevent match-fixing

Sport and Rec Minister Murray McCully announced 2 important steps to prevent match-fixing and protect the reputation of NZ sport

Read More
Load More

If you require an accessible version of any content on the site please contact us and we will be happy to assist.

Get Active
Find a sport or recreation activity
Browse Directory
Sport NZ
Who we are and what we do
ABOUT US
Funding
Information on funding
BROWSE FUNDING
Stay updated
Me whakahoutia

Sign up to our regular newsletters that connect Sport NZ to all those involved in the play, active recreation and sport sector.

burger close icon

Stay updated

Me whakahoutia

Keep up-to-date with news, events, and initiatives across the play, active recreation and sport sector.
No thanks