And survey says... $316k blown on Sport NZ DEI questionnaires

The Taxpayers’ Union can reveal through an Official Information Act request that Sport NZ has spent $316,000 on two diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) surveys. The first, in 2020, cost the taxpayer $185,598.51. The second, in 2024, cost $130,310. Sport NZ has also committed another $46,500 to online resources to promote DEI, which will not be completed until mid-2025.

Commenting on this, Taxpayers’ Union Policy and Public Affairs Manager, James Ross, said:

“The same agency responsible for the $170k ‘say thanks to your coach’ blunder – which cost more than $575 per e-card it sent – has blown over $300k on two DEI surveys.

“Ensuring sport is for everyone is commendable, but not every project needs to cost six figures. In fact, the surveys find the biggest barrier facing people in the sector is lack of cash. Maybe if Sports NZ got their act in gear and cut out their own waste, that wouldn’t be such an issue.”

“It must feel like a low blow to the scores of shuttered sports clubs Sport NZ is meant to support that this box-ticking exercise wasted enough money to buy 15,795 rugby balls.”

“At a time when New Zealanders are tightening their belts, Sport NZ should focus on achieving measurable results in grassroots sports rather than expensive self-congratulatory exercises.”