“While we still have work to do, we strive to deliver a game that authentically reflects the unique cultural identity of Aotearoa and showcases it to the world.”
New Zealand Football has been nominated for the Cultural Competence Award at the 2026 Diversity Awards NZ. Photo / Photosport
NZ Football has tried to make football the most inclusive sport in the country by implementing a range of initiatives, such as an iwi-led Call to the Field” which has been introduced to welcome teams at international matches.
Te reo Māori and Te Tiriti workshops have seen 90% of staff participate with regular waiata and karakia also introduced, while targeted programmes have helped to increase participation for Māori, with numbers up 9% from 2024.
The organisation has also partnered with Māori Football Aotearoa to support programmes and events, its statutes were changed to include Te Tiriti commitments into organisational decision-making and te ao Māori are a key factor in NZ Football’s strategy and values.
The winners will be announced this evening as part of the Whiria Ngā Kaha Workplace Inclusion Aotearoa conference in Auckland.