Read Getting Set for an Active Nation - Sport New Zealand

Part 5
ISSUES AND FINDINGS: THE NEED FOR CHANGE
5.1 Introduction
It is imperative that substantial changes take place in central government support of
recreation and sport and in the central structure of recreation and sport that
underpin its leadership and delivery. The Taskforce has concluded from its review
and widespread consultation that there are major issues which need resolution and
sets out its major findings below. These must be the basis for fundamental decisions
and actions to advance activity, health, achievement and participation in recreation
and sport for all New Zealanders, now and for the next 25 years. It is critical that all
recreation and sport strategies and structures fully recognise best contemporary
practice and adapt to the changing lifestyles of New Zealanders.
5.2 Vision and Delivery
There is a significant need for government and its central structure for recreation and
sport to set a clear vision for New Zealand and to lead in the achievement of that
vision. To date, there has been no encompassing vision that has drawn the
commitment of New Zealand recreation and sport organisations and which has led to
an excellence of coordinated delivery, regionally and nationally.
• New Zealand recreation and sport must be sustained by a vision to which all
major organisations in this sector and the Government are committed.
• There is a need for a more active nation that is committed to physical activity.
• Key central structures do not exhibit leadership that has the confidence of all
recreation and sport bodies and do not portray a clear and unified vision for New
Zealand recreation and sport.
• The relationships between central structures and national recreation and sport
organisations have been confused and are ineffective.
• Many national and regional structures do not have the confidence of the
recreation and sport constituency. Their present operations, leadership and
governance need major revision.
• Many national recreation and sport organisations have not utilised opportunities
to share facilities and resources.
• The delivery of recreation and sport has not been strong and coordinated at
community level and is marked by fragmentation.
• Fitness and physical activity have not been seen as integral to the holistic
development of each New Zealander.
Ministerial Taskforce on Sport, Fitness & Leisure January 2001 page 50 of 153