SPORT AND RECREATION NEW ZEALAND
SPARC is the Crown Entity responsible for sport and recreation in New Zealand.
SPARC was established on 1 January 2003 under the Sport and Recreation New Zealand Act (2002). The previous functions of the Hillary Commission, the New Zealand Sports Foundation and the policy arm of the Office of Tourism and Sport were incorporated into the new organisation. SPARC receives public funding through Vote Sport and Recreation and is accountable for its performance to the Minister for Sport and Recreation and to Parliament. Significant levels of funding are also obtained from other sources including the Lotteries Commission.
Purpose/Functions:
The purpose of SPARC is to: develop and implement national policies and strategies for physical recreation and sport; allocate funds to and provide advice and support for organisations and regional bodies in line with its policies and strategies; promote and advocate the importance of participation in physical activity by all New Zealanders for their health and well-being; and provide advice to the Minister on issues relating to physical recreation and sport.
Board Appointments:
SPARC has between five and nine board members, including the chair. Appointments to the board are made by the Minister who must take into account the recommendations of a Nominations Advisory Group which is established under s.18 of the Sport and Recreation New Zealand Act 2002. The Nomination Advisory group’s functions are to recommend to the Minister persons to be appointed as members of the Board and to advise the Minister concerning the membership of the Board. New appointments are made for a term of up to three years and members are eligible for reappointment.
Skills and Experience:
As well as the governance skills mentioned in the Governance front page, specific skills required for this Board include:
- Strong sport and recreation expertise.
- Experience in the funding of entities and programmes.
Time Commitment:
11 monthly meetings per annum. In addition, there are a number of sub-committees comprising members of the Board.
Council Membership (expiry of term in brackets):
- Paul Collins (Chair) (April 2012)
- Rob Fisher (June 2011)
- Donald Stewart (March 2010)
- Nichola Turner (30 August 2010)
- Paul Allison (30 August 2010)
- Bill Birnie (April 2012)
- Katie Sadleir (June 2012)
- Don Mackinnon (June 2012)
- Waimarama Taumaunu (June 2012)