Important statistics from the report include: sport club membership has rebounded by 12% since its pandemic low in 2021; volunteer numbers have dropped by 28% since 2018 placing increasing pressure on club and coaches; only 36% of clubs report gender-balanced governance, highlighting ongoing equity challenges; 56% of clubs now have formal partnerships with schools, signalling closer alignment between education and community sport; 72% of clubs are concerned about long-term financial sustainability; and climate resilience is emerging as a key theme, with nearly one in five clubs reporting disruption from extreme weather events in the past two years.
“This is the first time we’ve had such an accurate, long-term dataset covering the actual experience of New Zealand’s sport clubs,” said Association Chair Gordon Noble-Campbell.
“These sport clubs are the beating heart of our communities providing important social benefits, not only to sport. This significant report provides important, data-driven insights that will inform future policy, funding, and support across the entire sector. This is a game-changer for community sport.”
The report also addresses underrepresentation in club leadership, emerging sponsorship strategies, and the need for inclusive access across all demographics. It also reflects the sector’s remarkable resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and shows clear areas for innovation, investment, and reform.Already being shared and read nationally and internationally, Stronger Communities Through Sport is certain to inspire, inform and shape discussion across community sport, education, health, and local government.
The Association encourages anyone involved in sport, including volunteers, players, administrators, and supporters, to download the report and reflect on how its insights can help build a stronger, more inclusive sporting future for all New Zealanders, and in communities across the world.
You can read the report here.