New Zealand Football President Dr Johanna Wood CNZM will step away from her role at the end of its current tenure, bringing to a close a historic seven-year term in the position and eight years on the NZF Executive Committee.

First elected in 2018, Wood became the first female President of the New Zealand Football Executive Committee in 2019 and oversaw a period of major change and growth for the organisation.

During her tenure, participation has grown to more than 180,000 players, making football and futsal the number one team participation sport in the country.

There has also been significant growth in the professional game, from one professional side in 2018 to five in 2026, transforming opportunities for the best Kiwi talent.

Wood played a critical role in Aotearoa New Zealand’s bid to first win the right to co-host, and then deliver, the biggest-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, as well as overseeing legacy projects from the tournament that have seen girls’ and women’s football grow by 35% since before the event.

First elected to football governance in 2010 as Chair of Central Football Federation, Wood became the first New Zealander to join the FIFA Council in 2019, a role she will continue until the end of its current term in 2027.

Wood was awarded the Sport New Zealand Leadership Award at the Halberg Awards in 2021 and was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to football in the 2024 New Year Honours.

New Zealand Football President Dr Johanna Wood said:

“It has been a privilege and an honour to lead New Zealand Football for the last seven years, alongside the New Zealand Football Executive Committee.

“It is an exciting time for football in New Zealand, with the launch of our new strategy focused on ensuring that this global game is accessible to all who want to be involved, both on and off the pitch.”

New Zealand Football CEO Andrew Pragnell said:

“Johanna has overseen an enormous period of growth and positive change over the past eight years, as well as providing stability in New Zealand’s biggest sport.

“Her leadership and guidance have been key to major successes across the game, and she has contributed at every level possible, from club, to regional federation, through to New Zealand Football, OFC, and FIFA.

“For that service, football in New Zealand is forever grateful.”

Wood’s successor will be elected at the New Zealand Football Congress, to be held on 23 April 2026.

Article added: Monday 23 March 2026