Maretha Smit, Te Uru Tāngata Centre for Workplace Inclusion chief executive, said NZ Football’s work in these areas has helped to build foundations for change.
New Zealand Football took home two top prizes from the 2026 Diversity Awards. Photo / Photosport
“What stood out for our judges was the depth of partnership and co-creation, ensuring that Māori are not only included but are actively shaping the direction of the organisation,” Smit said.
“The combination of governance reform, capability building, and participation outcomes reflects a highly credible example of Tiriti-led transformation.
“This positions New Zealand Football as a leading example of how national bodies can meaningfully respond to Te Tiriti obligations while strengthening identity and performance.”
NZ Football won the Supreme Award later in the ceremony and CEO Andrew Pragnell was excited to have taken home some of the top awards.
“We are thrilled to accept these awards from Te Uru Tāngata Centre for Workplace Inclusion, it shows we’re on the right track although there’s still a lot of mahi to do before we achieve our targets,” Pragnell said.
“By 2035 we want to increase participation across the country, aiming for 60,000 new female footballers, 14,000 new Māori footballers and 22,000 new players of Pasifika and Asian backgrounds.
“Our mahi and how we look to the future is aligned around our strategic objectives, which includes making football the most inclusive sport in Aotearoa New Zealand.”