Sport Canterbury Information

Sport Canterbury is a hapori (community) bringing together individuals and teams who share this vision for our whānau and the future of the Waitaha Tai Poutini region: Kia Nui Ake, Kia Kaha Ake, Te Tokomaha Ake More People, More Active, More Often Founded in 1989, our small sport-focused team was first based on St Asaph Street in Central Ōtautahi. As the Regional Sports Trust for the Canterbury West Coast region, our mission was established with these words: Everything we do is about getting, and keeping, people engaged in sport and physical activity. Over 22 years, we have grown in size and also appreciation for the profound value of sport as a connector, healing agent and source of community. In addition to our responsibilities as sector leader and advocate, building the capability of sports and coaches, and increasing quality opportunities for participation, our team now also includes the following portfolios. As a collective, our mahi is insights-driven and community-led. Healthy Families Ōtautahi Focus: Prevention of chronic illness through systems change Green Prescription Focus: Exercise prescription, motivation and support service Community Strength and Balance Focus: Empowering activity providers to meet the needs of our kaumātua Top Team Challenge Focus: Delivering an iconic team-building exercise to schools, communities and corporate groups Ngā Puna Wai Focus: Fostering partnerships and activating this unique space as the southwestern home of community sport, recreation and so much more Regional Sports Awards Delivery Across the region, our kaimahi are based in Ōtautahi (Christchurch), Hakatere (Ashburton), Timaru and Māwhera (Greymouth). With this wider range of experience and insights in 2021, what is it that continues to bring us together? Our own Canterbury sporting legend Pat Barwick perhaps said it best: “It’s always been in my blood to coach people or help people to become better at being themselves – that’s been a common thread.”