News

In 2025, we carried out a review of our Awards Programme. The review looked at how well our awards reflect today’s industry, and how we can better recognise the people and organisations shaping our future. As a result, we’re introducing some changes for 2026. 

Recreation Aotearoa says the Government’s draft laws to replace the Resource Management Act (RMA) fail to recognise recreation and public open space as essential for community wellbeing.

Twenty-three parks and green spaces across Aotearoa New Zealand have today achieved Green Flag Award® status — an international recognition of excellence that reflects not only beautiful landscapes, but strong management, environmental stewardship, and community connection.

The 2025 Awards were held tonight in Ōtautahi Christchurch, bringing the sector together to recognise excellence and impact across Aotearoa. The calibre of mahi this year was outstanding, a real testament to the strength and depth of the recreation sector.

We’re delighted to announce the finalists for the Recreation Awards 2025. These awards celebrate the projects, programmes, facilities, and people who are shaping the future of recreation across Aotearoa.

Our annual Aquatics Awards recognise the innovation, leadership, and dedication at the heart of New Zealand’s aquatics sector. The Aquatics Awards 2025 were held on Thursday 21 August in Ōtautahi Christchurch. The awards ceremony brought together professionals from across the motu to celebrate this year’s outstanding achievements.

New guidance aims to improve safety, consistency, sustainability and accessibility across New Zealand’s mountain bike trail network.

We’re excited to reveal the finalists for this year’s Aquatics Awards — a celebration of excellence, innovation, and commitment across the aquatic sector in Aotearoa.

We’re delighted to announce our Chief Executive, Sarah Murray, has recieved the C.K. Doig Leadership Award at Sport NZ’s annual New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards, held in Wellington tonight.

We’re proud to share the next step in our collective journey — Te Whai Oranga 2025–2030.