Triathlon New Zealand Annual Report 2025 - Flipbook - Page 4
President’s Report
President’s
Report
As I present this report, I do so marking the conclusion of my tenure as
President of Triathlon New Zealand. It has been a privilege to serve the
sport, and I do so with immense pride in the position in which I now leave
triathlon in New Zealand.
Across my time as President, spanning two Olympic cycles, our
sport has achieved outstanding success on the world stage,
including two Olympic medals. These results reflect a sustained and
deliberate high-performance programme, and a testament to the
dedication of our athletes, coaches, and support staff. They have
elevated the profile of triathlon in New Zealand and inspired
participation across all levels of the sport.
Building on that success, our high-performance programme
continues to deliver. This depth of performance reflects not
only individual excellence but also the strength and alignment
of our wider system, supported by key partners including High
Performance Sport New Zealand.
Equally important has been the continued growth of our triathlon
community. Participation and membership have continued to
increase, supported by the commitment of clubs, event providers,
and volunteers across the country.
During my tenure, Triathlon New Zealand has made significant
progress across a number of areas. This includes strengthening
our high-performance pathway, increasing international
competitiveness, expanding participation at both community and
age group level and enhancing our reputation as a host of worldclass events. Our governance and organisational capability has also
matured significantly, positioning the sport well for the
future.
From a governance and organisational perspective, the sport is in
a strong and stable position, despite an increasingly challenging
operating environment. The Board and leadership team have
worked collaboratively to ensure clarity of strategy, including the
recently developed strategy through to 2029, financial
sustainability, and alignment across all levels of the sport.
relationships, and a real sense of momentum across the sport. His
leadership has been central to the progress we have made, and his
ability to appoint and build a high-quality team around him has been
a key driver of that success. I also acknowledge the wider Triathlon
New Zealand team, whose dedication underpins the success of the
sport at every level.
I would also like to acknowledge the immense contribution of our
clubs, volunteers, and Technical Officials. The sport simply does
not function without your commitment, and your efforts continue to
ensure triathlon continues to grow and thrive in New Zealand.
I would also like to acknowledge my fellow Board members, past
and present, for their commitment, professionalism, and support
throughout my tenure.
Looking ahead, there is much to be excited about. Tauranga will
play a central role in the global triathlon calendar, hosting World
Triathlon events in 2026 and 2027, culminating in the World
Triathlon Championship Series Final in 2028.
While I step down from this role, I remain committed to the
continued growth of triathlon in our region and look forward to
continuing to serve as a Board member of Oceania
Triathlon.
As I conclude my appointment, I do so with genuine pride in
what has been achieved. The sport is in a strong position - high
performing, well governed, and supported by a passionate and
committed community.
Thank you to everyone who has played a part.
Natalie Smith
President
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to CEO Pete de Wet
for his leadership, energy, and commitment to progressing the
organisation. Pete has proven to be exceptional appointment for
Triathlon New Zealand, providing clear direction, strong stakeholder
Triathlon New Zealand
Annual Report 2025
Page 4
