Modernising Tennis Together

Tennis in New Zealand continues to evolve to meet the needs of today's participants, clubs, coaches, volunteers and communities. Over the past several years, the tennis community has worked together to modernise our sport - improving how we connect with players, support clubs, deliver services and create safe spaces, welcoming environments for everyone.

The completion of the Incorporated Societies Act re-registration process marks an important milestone in that journey. With updated constitutions now in place across the network, our attention firmly focused on supporting sustainable growth, strengthening clubs and making it easier for more people to enjoy tennis in ways that suit them.

Modernising Tennis is no longer a plan; it is an ongoing commitment to collaboration across the tennis system. By working together nationally, regionally and locally, we can continue to build a sport where:

• Everyone is safe
• Everyone is included
• Everyone is connected

Together, we can ensure tennis remains relevant, accessible and sustainable for future generations.

If you are a club, be sure to check out the Club Toolkit for all the latest support, webinars and initiatives designed to make your life easier. Or connect with the Club Support Manager, Ali via ali@tennis.kiwi

If you are a Local Tennis Partner (LTP) or a Regional Tennis Organisation (RTO), check in with the Regional Tennis Organisation Development Manager, Charlotte on charlotte@tennis.kiwi to gain access to the region-specific resource library.

The way people participate in sport and recreation continues to change. Tennis has made significant progress in recent years, but we must keep adapting to meet the needs of current and future players.

Research and feedback from clubs and participants continue to show that:

• People value flexibility and convenience in how they access sport.
• Participants increasingly want options that fit around busy lifestyles.
• Many people play tennis without belonging to a club and seek casual ways to participate.
• Clubs are looking for new opportunities to attract and retain participants.
• Digital tools can make participation and club administration easier.
• Strong governance and safe environments are essential expectations across community sport.

By responding to these trends together, we can create more opportunities for people to engage with tennis and support the long-term success of clubs throughout New Zealand.

Clubs remain at the heart of tennis in New Zealand.

The future success of our sport depends on strong partnerships between clubs, local tennis partners, regional tennis organisations, and Tennis NZ. By sharing knowledge, embracing innovation and keeping participants at the center of decision-making, we can continue to grow the game and create positive experiences for everyone involved.

Thank you to all the volunteers, administrators, coaches and players who contribute to our tennis community.