Recreation Aotearoa exists to empower, support and connect the recreation industry so that all New Zealanders can access quality recreation experiences. We are a collective voice for recreation in Aotearoa, representing all parts of New Zealand’s diverse recreation sector.

The Recreation Aotearoa Board is responsible for overseeing the implementation of our strategic plan Te Whai Oranga and supporting the organisation to achieve our aspirational vision of re-creating a nation through recreation. We have a strong focus on Te Tiriti-centric leadership and are committed to enacting this through all levels of the organisation including at the board table.

Our board is made up of four elected members, three appointed members and two non-voting aspiring directors. We use a skills matrix to ensure we have the right mix of skills, attributes, and experience on our board. We are Sport NZ Governance Mark accredited, showing our commitment to governance development.

Ideal Applicant

We are seeking an experienced Board Member with a commitment to advancing our industry. Our ideal applicant will tautoko our commitment to upholding the mana of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and will bring a high degree of cultural intelligence.

In addition, the successful applicant will have:

• prior experience in a not-for-profit or corporate governance role;
• strategic acumen and the ability to identify industry trends and challenges;
• knowledge and experience of recreation including kaupapa Māori approaches to recreation; and
• experience in, and knowledge of, one or more areas of the recreation industry (Parks and Open Space, Play, Tākaro, Aquatics, Facilities, Outdoors, Community Recreation, Ngā Mahi a te Rehia)
• a broad range of skills, including some of the following: financial, policy, legal, fundraising, technology, HR, and advocacy;
• knowledge and experience of recreation including kaupapa Māori approaches to recreation; and
• the strength of character to maintain an independent point of view when others disagree.

In seeking a suitable candidate, the Board Appointments Panel will consider the individual merits of applicants alongside the overall diversity and balance of the board. In particular, we welcome applications from tāne (men) and individuals who whakapapa Māori, as part of our commitment to upholding the mana of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and ensuring a broad range of perspectives at the governance table.

Board Member Expectations

Board Members are appointed for three-year terms and can serve a maximum of three terms.

The board meets two-three times per year in person (including overnight noho marae) with the remainder of board meetings held online. The estimated time commitment for board members is 8 - 16 days per year for attendance at Board meetings, Committee Meetings, Annual General Meeting, and additional preparation for meetings.

Although these are unpaid positions, reasonable expenses including travel and accommodation are covered.

Applications close at 5:00pm on 23rd January 2025. To apply for this position, please send a CV and cover letter to Sarah Murray at sarahm@nzrecreation.org.nz

For an information pack including a role description and schedule of upcoming board meetings, please contact Sarah Murray on the above email address, or by phone on 021 721 599.