New Zealand Football will honour the passing of football historian Barry Smith QSM, who devoted more than 70 years to the game in Aotearoa New Zealand, at this Saturday’s Delivereasy Kate Sheppard Cup and DelivereasyChatham Cup finals at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch. 

A legend of the domestic game, Smith, who was widely known for his dedication to the meticulous recording of football in New Zealand, sadly passed away on Friday 28 August, aged 88. 

Smith first began recording football statistics at just 15 years of age and, over seven decades, built an extensive library documenting the history of the game across the country. 

His long service to the sport was recognised in 2020 when he was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal (QSM) for services to football and historical research. 

A life member of New Zealand Football, Smith was also recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the New Zealand Sport Recreation Awards in June 2026, honouring his extraordinary commitment to the game. 

 

“Barry was a legend of the game in New Zealand, who showed an unparalleled level of commitment to recording the history of football for the benefit of players, fans, clubs and the whole football system” said New Zealand Football CEO Andrew Pragnell. 

“In recent years, it has been amazing to see his contribution to the sport recognised through both the New Zealand Sport Recreation Awards and the 2020 New Year Honours. 

“It was an honour to spend time with Barry and share his stories of the game, he leaves an incredible legacy and will be greatly missed by the football community.” 

To acknowledge Barry Smith’s enormous contribution to football in New Zealand, a moment of silence will be held ahead of the Delivereasy Kate Sheppard Cup final and the Delivereasy Chatham Cup final, a match he had attended more than 50 times.  

Article added: Monday 31 August 2026