Sport NZ and Oranga Tamariki launch plan to get more young people active

Two agencies have launched a joint plan to help more tamariki and rangatahi involved with Oranga Tamariki take part in play, active recreation and sport.

The Joint Action Plan covers 2026 to 2028 and aims to improve access to quality physical activity opportunities. Several actions are already under way, with further work planned through to June 2028.

Sport NZ says being active can support physical, mental and social wellbeing. It can also help young people build confidence, strengthen relationships and feel they belong.

Cost, transport and limited local opportunities can make it harder for those involved with Oranga Tamariki to get these benefits. The plan responds to that by setting out shared work between the two agencies.

It draws on a 2025 Sport NZ report that explored how play, active recreation and sport matter for care-experienced tamariki and rangatahi.

The plan focuses on 4 priority areas. The first is strengthening collaboration, which includes closer relationships between Regional Sports Trusts and Oranga Tamariki teams.

The second is building workforce capability. The agencies will look at the skills and support needed across the care, youth justice, and sport and recreation workforces.

The third is identifying and reducing barriers. Sport NZ and Oranga Tamariki will use shared evidence to develop targeted initiatives.

The fourth is supporting positive pathways. The agencies will explore how sport and physical activity can support youth development and prevention for young people in, or at risk of entering, the youth justice system.

The full plan is on the Sport NZ website.