Aktive announces new Organised Sport Advisory Group

Aktive - Auckland Sport & Recreation (Aktive) has announced the establishment of the Organised Sport Advisory Group to provide input, collaboration and guidance on organised sport in Auckland.

Chaired by Murray Lockwood, Board Member, Northern Netball, the Group comprises: Dean Murphy, Chief Executive Officer, New Zealand Golf; John Limna, Chief Executive Officer, Northern Football Federation; Julie Paterson, Chief Executive Officer, Tennis New Zealand; Lara Collins, Chief Executive, Waka Ama; Phil Vyver, General Manager, Auckland Bowls; and Nigel Cass, Chief Strategy and Operations Officer, NZ Rugby.

The Organised Sport Advisory Group replaces the Auckland Sport Coalition and now includes National Sport Organisations. Representatives have been appointed based on extensive business and sport experience and will provide a sector-wide perspective. Mr Lockwood was previously Chair of the Auckland Sport Coalition and has been appointed to Chair the Group for one year.

Dr Sarah Sandley, Chief Executive Officer, Aktive says the establishment of the Organised Sport Advisory Group acknowledges the significance of organised sport in Auckland.

"As we pursue the vision for Auckland to be the world’s most active city, we recognise the continuing importance of organised sport, both historically and in the future, in creating relevant, high-quality physical activity and sporting experiences for many Aucklanders," says Dr Sandley.

"In such a complex, fast-changing city, it’s critical that organised sport organisations are able to further develop the part they play in the lives of our citizens, particularly our young people and diverse communities."

With both regional and national body representation, the Organised Sport Advisory Group will provide high-level strategic input to guide decisions, enhance collaboration, share research and help direct advocacy. The Group will meet initially quarterly, and as a minimum twice a year.

Dr Sandley adds: "The establishment of this Group is an important addition to the sector’s information sharing and will help inform Aktive’s plans in our five current priority areas - advocacy, sector development, schools and community, spaces and places, and coaching. It will also provide input into the long-term strategic planning for sport and recreation in Tāmaki Makaurau, a diverse city with many challenges but also unparalleled opportunities to increase participation."

Aktive is a charitable trust that has been established to make Auckland the world’s most active city. It is a key strategic partner of Sport NZ, Auckland Council and major grant makers and funders. Aktive invests more than $11m per annum in a range of delivery partners, organisations and projects that will get more people recreating and playing sport in Auckland, with focuses on young people and identified communities.

ENDS

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