She will not be with the team for next month’s tour of China.
“This has not been an easy decision, but I believe this is the right time for the programme,” Winstanley-Smith said.
“It has been one of the greatest privileges of my career to lead New Zealand women’s water polo.”
She has been approached for further comment.
Winstanley-Smith said in her statement that she was proud of what the “athletes, coaches, staff, volunteers and supporters have built together, and of the role this programme has played in changing the landscape of women’s water polo in New Zealand”.
She said the White Caps were now entering an important phase of their Olympics campaign, targeting the Games in Los Angeles in 2028.
“… I believe fresh leadership at this point will best support the athletes and staff as they prepare for the next stage of that journey.”
Water Polo New Zealand chair Richard Shine said few people had had the impact on women’s water polo that Winstanley-Smith had over the past eight years.
“Her vision, commitment and belief in what this programme could achieve have transformed the women’s programme and helped shape the future of our sport.
“The board recognises that Angie has given far more to this role than could reasonably be expected, and we thank her for the leadership, care and personal investment she has brought to the athletes and programme throughout her tenure.”
The 2025 senior New Zealand women’s water polo team and former WPNZ chair Alex Howieson (inset left) and Jan Shearer (inset right). Illustration / Oliver Rusden; Main picture / Getty
Water Polo New Zealand chief executive Jan Shearer said Winstanley-Smith had dedicated “an extraordinary amount of time, energy, and personal sacrifice to the women’s programme”.
“She leaves strong foundations for future success, with the team well positioned to challenge for Olympic qualification…
“We also recognise the many athletes who have expressed their support and thanks to Angie for her guidance, care, and commitment throughout their journey.”
Water Polo New Zealand said its priority was “maintaining stability and support for athletes”.
It was progressing “interim coaching arrangements and a formal appointment process later in the year”.
“Water Polo New Zealand also acknowledges and respects Angie’s decision to take time away from the programme. It hopes Angie will remain involved in Water Polo New Zealand programmes in the future and would welcome the opportunity to work together again should the time be right for all involved.”
Water polo allegations, team rift
New Zealand and China players compete at last year’s World Aquatic Championships in Singapore. Photo / Getty
The Herald has been investigating numerous allegations within New Zealand water polo for several months.
The Herald first reported in February that the Sport Integrity Commission was investigating claims of bullying within Water Polo NZ’s senior women’s programme, amid concerns for some athletes’ wellbeing.
The allegations followed an apparent rift between a group of senior and junior players during the five-week tour in Europe and Asia last year that culminated in the world championships in Singapore in July.
There have been allegations of bullying, an alleged violent physical act, and broader claims of selection “favouritism”, as the sport strives to have its senior women’s team qualify for the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.
While three athletes raised serious allegations about the way they were treated on last year’s tour, there have also been broader governance and leadership concerns raised by dozens of people spoken to by the Herald.
New Zealand’s 20 water polo clubs have subsequently wielded their power and influence.
Water Polo chair Alex Howieson abruptly resigned in April, two days after a majority of clubs called for her to step down.
She was followed out the door last month by deputy chair Megan Thomson, who did not seek reappointment at Water Polo NZ’s AGM. Some clubs had said they would not support her continuing in the role.
Editor-at-Large Shayne Currie is one of New Zealand’s most experienced senior journalists and media leaders. He has held executive and senior editorial roles at NZME including Managing Editor, NZ Herald Editor and Herald on Sunday Editor and has a small shareholding in NZME.