She will not be with the team for next month\u2019s tour of China.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis has not been an easy decision, but I believe this is the right time for the programme,\u201d Winstanley-Smith said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt has been one of the greatest privileges of my career to lead New Zealand women\u2019s water polo.\u201d<\/p>\n
She has been approached for further comment.<\/p>\n
Winstanley-Smith said in her statement that she was proud of what the \u201cathletes, coaches, staff, volunteers and supporters have built together, and of the role this programme has played in changing the landscape of women\u2019s water polo in New Zealand\u201d.<\/p>\n
She said the White Caps were now entering an important phase of their Olympics campaign, targeting the Games in Los Angeles in 2028.<\/p>\n
\u201c… I believe fresh leadership at this point will best support the athletes and staff as they prepare for the next stage of that journey.\u201d<\/p>\n
Water Polo New Zealand chair Richard Shine said few people had had the impact on women\u2019s water polo that Winstanley-Smith had over the past eight years.<\/p>\n
\u201cHer vision, commitment and belief in what this programme could achieve have transformed the women\u2019s programme and helped shape the future of our sport. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\n
Water Polo New Zealand chief executive Jan Shearer said Winstanley-Smith had dedicated \u201can extraordinary amount of time, energy, and personal sacrifice to the women\u2019s programme\u201d. <\/p>\n
\u201cShe leaves strong foundations for future success, with the team well positioned to challenge for Olympic qualification…<\/p>\n
\u201cWe also recognise the many athletes who have expressed their support and thanks to Angie for her guidance, care, and commitment throughout their journey.\u201d<\/p>\n
Water Polo New Zealand said its priority was \u201cmaintaining stability and support for athletes\u201d. <\/p>\n
It was progressing \u201cinterim coaching arrangements and a formal appointment process later in the year\u201d. <\/p>\n
\u201cWater Polo New Zealand also acknowledges and respects Angie\u2019s 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
Water polo allegations, team rift<\/p>\n
New Zealand and China players compete at last year’s World Aquatic Championships in Singapore. Photo \/ Getty<\/p>\n
The Herald has been investigating numerous allegations<\/a> within New Zealand water polo for several months.<\/p>\n The Herald first reported in February<\/a> that the Sport Integrity Commission was investigating claims of bullying within Water Polo NZ\u2019s senior women\u2019s programme, amid concerns for some athletes\u2019 wellbeing.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n There have been allegations of bullying, an alleged violent physical act, and broader claims of selection \u201cfavouritism\u201d, as the sport strives to have its senior women\u2019s team qualify for the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.<\/p>\n While three athletes raised serious allegations about the way they were treated on last year\u2019s tour, there have also been broader governance and leadership concerns raised by dozens of people spoken to by the Herald.<\/p>\n New Zealand\u2019s 20 water polo clubs have subsequently wielded their power and influence.<\/p>\n