Women in Sport Aotearoa
Our Timeline
About us
Women in Sport Aotearoa, Ngā Wāhine Hākinakina o Aotearoa, is Aotearoa’s champion for gender equity in sport and physical activity.
WISPA is a charity that exists to transform society through leadership, advocacy and research, ensuring that all women and girls gain equity of opportunity to participate, compete and build careers in play, active recreation and sport in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We launched on UN International Women’s Day, 8 March 2017.
Our People
Women in Sport Aotearoa was co-founded by co-chairs, Julie Paterson (CEO, Tennis New Zealand) and Sarah Leberman (Professor, Massey University).
The organisation was supported from the beginning by a passionate set of Foundation Members and is now governed by a strong and committed Board.
In November 2022, Nicky van den Bos accepted the role as Acting Chief Executive after inaugural CEO Rachel Froggatt made the decision to step down following more than 4 years in the role. Meet the WISPA team.
Our Patron, the Rt Hon. Helen Clark ONZ, was announced on UN International Women’s Day, 8 March 2019 – our 2nd anniversary.
Strategic Plan
Our Vision is ‘The world’s most equitable sport system, Te Tiriti inspired.’
Our Statement of Strategic Intent has three strategic pillars: Matauranga/Knowledge, Kōkiri/Voice and Mahi Tahi/Delivery.
Learn more through our Annual Reports.
Programmes
Our programmes are varied, and include insight and research, change leadership, leadership programmes, advocacy campaigns and speaking engagements.
Find out more about our Programmes.
Support Us
Our funding comes from a mix of Grants & Trusts, Donations, Fundraising & Gifts and Commercial Partnerships, which together make Women in Sport Aotearoa’s leadership, research and advocacy work possible.
We are incredibly grateful for any support we receive. You can help too. Visit Support Us or Donate Now.
Contact Us
Find out how to Contact Us.
22 Foundation Members
The Beginning of Women in Sport Aotearoa
The Beginning of Women in Sport Aotearoa
Women in Sport Aotearoa, Ngā Wāhine Hākinakina o Aotearoa, is a charity that exists to transform society through leadership, advocacy and research, ensuring that all women and girls gain equity of opportunity to participate, compete and build careers in play, active recreation and sport in Aotearoa New Zealand.
WISPA volunteer team stage first major event
WISPA wins IWG 2018-2022 global Bid
Government launches Women + Girls Strategy
WISPA Appoints CEO
Women in Sport Aotearoa takes flight
New CEO, Nicky van den Bos appointed
Women in Sport Aotearoa Board Members
-
Susan (Sooz)
Chairperson -
Erin Roxburgh
Deputy Chair -
Mere Rangihuna
Board Member -
Mary Gardiner
Board Member -
Pauline Harrison
Board Member -
Tim Corbett
Board Member -
Jon “JT” Tamihere-Kemeys
Board Member -
Caroline Wethey
Board Member -
Jayne Jordan
Non-voting Associate Member -
Julie Paterson
Co-Founder -
Sarah Leberman MNZM
Co-Founder