New Zealand Football has claimed NZ Sport and Recreation’s Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion award for its efforts in Pasifika community football at Monday's awards gala in Auckland.

Football’s national body was up against fellow nominees, āhei and Whenua Iti Outdoors in the 2026 Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion category.

New Zealand Sport and Recreation say the Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion award acknowledges an initiative promoting diversity and inclusion through access, participation, leadership or community connection.

New Zealand Football’s work has seen Pasifika participation grow by 8% in 2025 along with a 10% growth in Pasifika female participation, 97% growth in coach education.

In the same year, more than 3,200 coaches engaged in formal development pathways, representing a 25% increase year-on-year.

New Zealand Football’s Diversity & Inclusion Manager, Hussain Hanif, says the Pasifika in Community Football project reflects a shift from engagement to relational, community-led development.

“On behalf of New Zealand football it's a privilege to accept this award for Sport New Zealand leadership and diversity and inclusion.

“Would like to thank Sport New Zealand and the judging panel for this recognition, to be acknowledged alongside so many aspiring organisations committed to creating positive change across Aotearoa.

“Our Pasifika and community football project has shown that inclusion is more, it is about more than participation, it's about creating spaces where people feel seen, valued and empowered while celebrating the cultures and identities that strengthen our game.

“We would like to thank our community leaders, clubs, volunteers, federations and the Ministry for Pacific Peoples who are here tonight and everyone who contributed through this work.

“Your insights continue to shape a more inclusive future for sport in Aotearoa. This award is a reminder that meaningful change happens when communities lead and organisations listen.”

The NZ Sport and Recreation Awards win comes a month after NZF claimed double honours at the 2026 Diversity Awards NZ™, awarded the He Ara Māori Tohu - Cultural Competence Award and the 2026 Supreme Award.

Article added: Monday 08 June 2026