Sport NZ Ihi Aotearoa media release: 26th September 2023

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

The Inclusivity Hub equips everyone working in play, active recreation and sport – from coaches and club administrators to sector leaders and policy makers – with the resources and knowledge to cater for diverse groups of participants. The resources include practical guidance, policy templates, case studies and training opportunities.

Aotearoa New Zealand is diverse and is becoming more so every year. Recent data shows 24 percent of the population identify as disabled and 4.4 percent identify as LGBTQIA+. There are six major ethnic groups - with 27 percent of the population being born overseas and over 160 languages spoken across the country.

Sport NZ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant Rebecca Scott says sport and recreation should be representative of New Zealand’s diverse communities and proactive about inclusion, which starts with an openness to learn.

“We know that having a diversity of perspectives and experiences leads to better outcomes for everyone. By taking the time to learn about people’s unique experiences and any barriers they face, we can actively work together to eliminate these. It’s up to us to make people from all backgrounds, ages and abilities feel welcome, respected and that they belong.”

The Hub supports Sport NZ’s vision that no one is missing out on the benefits of physical activity - regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or where they live. It will continue to grow, with more resources added over time.

Visit Sport NZ's Inclusivity Hub to access resources for organisations and individuals on their diversity, equity and inclusion learning journey.