Regional sports trusts (RSTs) share Sport New Zealand's focus on sport and recreation.
In April 2004, we formally recognised RSTs as key partners and from July 2004, contracted each of the trusts to achieve twin high-level outcomes:
- To increase regional levels of physical activity
- To strengthen regional sport and physical recreation infrastructures.
Sport NZ invests in each RST using a population-based formula and also provides further investment for targeted initiatives such as CoachForce, He Oranga Poutama, Active Movement, and Active Schools
What RSTs do
The 17 RSTs are independent not-for-profit organisations governed by a Board of Trustees drawn from the local community.
Positioned as network hubs, RSTs have strong working relationships with sports organisations, local councils, health agencies, education institutions, local businesses and the media. By mobilising financial and 'in kind' resources within their local community, RSTs add value to Sport NZ's own regional investment.
As 'umbrella' organisations, RSTs work across the broad sport and physical recreation spectrum, assisting regional sports organisations, schools and clubs as well as supporting individuals and community groups participating in less structured physical activity. They provide a regional voice for their sport and recreation communities.
Working with Sport NZ
RSTs are important 'centres of influence'. They offer Sport NZ unique pathways into the different communities of New Zealand and:
- provide a professional presence 'on the ground' that is clearly aligned with Sport NZ's philosophy and mission;
- provide an effective distribution network for Sport NZ's messages, programmes and promotions;
- are a politically-neutral facilitator for comprehensive regional planning;
- As part of the partnership with Sport NZ, RSTs report twice a year against agreed business plans;
RST accountabilities
RSTs are accountable to a variety of stakeholders.
They often have contractual relationships with local councils, health agencies, community trusts and commercial sponsors. As service organisations, they are also responsive to the needs of their regional sport and physical recreation communities.