Update on the Sport NZ independent rapid review
A rapid review into the effectiveness and efficiency of Sport NZ will see changes to governance arrangements to bring the agency into line with other Crown Entities.
Late last year, the previous Minister for Sport and Recreation commissioned an independent rapid review (IRR) of the Sport NZ Group, specifically to provide assurance around how public funding is used. The final report and recommendations were delivered in February 2025.
Sport NZ describes the IRR as a “health check” showing the agency has sound strategies and governance in place with corporate and operations costs in line with public sector benchmarks.
The key action to come from the review is the shift of the strategic policy function of Sport NZ to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage (MCH). Sport NZ’s current dual role as both policy advisor and funding decision-maker creates potential conflicts of interest, and the move creates alignment with other Crown Entities, which fits within the broader context of directives to all agencies across Government to focus on consistency and improving accountability.
With the policy function moved, Sport NZ will concentrate on delivering programs and initiatives that promote physical activity and well-being, particularly among youth and underserved communities. Strengthened monitoring by the MCH will provide greater oversight of Sport NZ's operations, ensuring effective use of public funds. A transition group has been set up to support the shift with changes estimated to take place by 1 October 2025.
In addition to governance changes, the report found operational cost savings of up to $2.9m per annum to direct towards strategic priorities. The Minister has asked that Sport NZ explore opportunities to support the reduction of youth offending and recidivism, particularly in collaboration with NZ Police, the Department of Corrections, and the Ministry of Ethnic Communities.
Read Sport NZ’s website update on the IRR and funding changes:
Read the IRR on the MCH website:
https://www.mch.govt.nz/publications/final-report-independent-rapid-review-sport-new-zealand-group
