Golf New Zealand partners with NZ Maori Golf and look to fill their first Development Manager role

After an extended period of working closely together, Golf New Zealand has partnered with the New Zealand Maori Golf Association to better "enrich lives through the sport of golf in a meaningful way".

Operational since 1932, the New Zealand Maori Golf Association has the mission to foster, develop and promote the game of golf among Maori and the wider community of Aotearoa for all ages, regionally, nationally, and internationally.

Golf New Zealand acknowledges Maori rangatiratanga (leadership) and the importance of matauranga Maori.(Maori knowledge)

Golf New Zealand is committed to an authentic and effective partnership with New Zealand Maori Golf. As part of the new partnership agreement, Golf New Zealand is investing in a shared Kaiarahi Maori (leadership) role to support the parties collective mahi (practices)towards enhanced outcomes for Maori in golf. The new role will be part of the wider Golf New Zealand team but, importantly serve NZ Maori Golf and be the critical link between the organisations.

Golf New Zealand will also provide a range of general support services to serve NZ Maori Golf and assist the organisation in thriving into the future alongside Golf New Zealand.

Mark Tito of New Zealand Maori Golf notes “this partnership heralds over two and half years of work between NZ Maori Golf and Golf NZ, building a stronger relationship and both organisations assisting each other where the expertise is required.

“It has been a journey that both organisations can be proud of, culminating in a strategic partnership aspiring to deliver meaningful outcomes for both organisations and te iwi Maori (the Maori people).

“NZ Maori Golf looks forward to a long and fruitful partnership with Korowha Aotearoa - Golf NZ.

“Ko te Tipu me te Hauora te Aronga, Ko te Hahauporo te Whai” – Growth and Well-being is our focus, Excellence in golf is our pursuit.”

Golf New Zealand's Dean Murphy adds “this is a great day for golf in New Zealand. We recognise the special role the NZ Maori Golf Association plays and the importance of Maori in golf. This partnership will see our organisations join forces to drive enhanced outcomes. While our primary mission is to serve their organisation, NZ Maori Golf will also provide their wisdom and guidance to our team to help us work more effectively with Maori in a meaningful and culturally responsive way.”

“This partnership adds significant value to our organisation. It also complements our work with Districts Associations where we are progressively working towards a consolidated workforce that is aligned and focused on the best outcomes for golf. So far, we have five District Associations operating under this partnership model and we are hopeful more will join this important project in the near future.”

Sport NZ Chief Executive, Raelene Castle, says this is an important step for Golf New Zealand and New Zealand Maori Golf adding "this partnership will help strengthen relationships and connections, as well as cultural capability.  It will also help ensure the game is inclusive of Maori and is contributing to Maori wellbeing.  It is a great initiative and I look forward to seeing the results.”

The new partnership with NZ Maori Golf commenced on 10th June with the search for the first Golf New Zealand Maori Golf Development Manager role now underway. View details at golf.co.nz/work-in-golf