Programme overview 

Te Manaakitanga – Women in coaching is a targeted development programme designed to help more women succeed and progress in coaching across Aotearoa New Zealand. 

It will provide tailored support, connection and learning development opportunities to women coaching rangatahi or secondary school aged young people (aged 12 to 19).

3 regional communities of practice will be set up for a 12-month period across Auckland, Waikato and Canterbury.

This programme is part of Sport NZ and High Performance Sport NZ’s wider focus to support and retain women in coaching roles across the sporting pathway – from community to performance.

Who can apply

Applications are open to all women coaches aged over 18 who are New Zealand citizens or residents. They should:

• be coaching rangatahi (secondary aged young people aged 12 to 19) in school, club or regional representative settings
• have a minimum of 3 years coaching experience (*exceptions will be considered)
• be supported by a school, club, national or regional sports organisation
• have demonstrated commitment to personal development, the Balance is Better approach and their community
• live in, or are able to travel to, 1 of the 3 regional areas. lease note, any costs associated with travel are the responsibility of the individual.

What’s involved

Selected coaches will receive:

• mentoring and coach developer support
• access to regional communities of practice
• in-person and online learning opportunities – including workshops delivered by current and former High Performance coaches.

Key dates

• Applications open: Thursday 27 November 2025
• Applications close: Friday 12 December 2025
• Coach selection and confirmation will be completed by mid-January 2026
• Programme start: February 2026 (12-month duration) and will begin with the first in-person workshops:
  • Waikato: Saturday 21 February 2026
  • Auckland: Sunday 22 February 2026
  • Canterbury: Sunday 22 February 2026
• Additional in-person dates will be confirmed following the first workshop.

How to apply

Apply using the link below. Make sure to include information about your coaching experience and approach to coaching.

All applications must be supported by your associated club, school, regional sports organisation or national sports organisation. A brief reference check with the endorser will be completed before any coaches are offered a place.