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A Massey University researcher says Sport New Zealand needs to take active steps to get more Māori and Pasifika people into the top levels of sports management.
Ryan Holland undertook the first formal review of Māori and Pasifika in sports governance for the agency.
He says while Māori and Pasifika make up nearly half the players in high profile teams like the All Blacks and Silver Ferns, their representation across all sports in governance roles is just over 5 per cent.
Their contribution is seen as being on the field, rather than what they can do in the future, as coaches and sports administrators.
Mr Holland, who has Niuean whakapapa, says while he didn’t come across any out-and-out racism, Māori and Pasifika people must counter both the old boy’s network and a perception they lack discipline.
He says Sport New Zealand should identify people at the grassroots level and give them opportunities to develop leadership and governance skills through workshops and mentoring.
Copyright © 2013, Uma Broadcasting Ltd
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