A partnership between the Ministry for Pacific Peoples and New Zealand Football has been recognised at the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards.
The Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion Award acknowledges a three-year collaboration focused on increasing Pacific participation in football and creating more opportunities for Pacific women and communities to connect with the sport, both on and off the field.
Through the partnership, New Zealand Football delivered nationwide initiatives including football festivals and talanoa workshops designed to strengthen connections with Pacific communities.
In 2024 and 2025, New Zealand Football also hosted a national Pasifika in Football leadership programme and coach development courses for Pacific players, coaches and leaders, helping strengthen Pacific representation within the sport.
The work contributed to an 8 percent increase in overall Pacific participation and a 10 percent increase in Pacific women's player participation in 2025. During the same period, more than 3,200 coaches engaged in formal development pathways, representing a 25 percent year-on-year increase.
The award reflects the value of partnerships that help Pacific communities see themselves in football, not only as players but also as coaches, leaders and decision-makers helping shape the future of the sport.