Competition Review

Water Polo New Zealand is pleased to now share the Community Survey Insights Report!

We’d like to thank everyone across the water polo community who took the time to share their views. A total of 149 respondents from across New Zealand contributed, with strong representation from parents and caregivers, players, and club volunteers.

Your feedback has provided valuable direction on what matters most for the future of our sport—particularly around affordability, player retention, the National League, and the overall competition calendar.

• View the Community Survey Insights Report Here
• View the  Detailed Survey Data here

Overview

This report presents the key findings from a national survey conducted as part of the review of Water Polo New Zealand’s competitions and calendar.

Overall, the community is supportive of change and innovation—particularly where it improves affordability, player experience, and long-term participation. At the same time, there is a clear desire to balance innovation with the traditions and rivalries that define water polo.

Key Insights

1. Cost is the biggest barrier to participation

The cumulative cost of competitions—including travel, accommodation, and time commitments—is placing increasing pressure on families, players, and clubs. Affordability will be a critical factor in future decisions.

2. National League needs to evolve

There is strong interest in evolving the current National League model. Hybrid formats and alternative timing options are widely supported, particularly where they reduce cost, travel, and season length while maintaining competitive quality.

3. Retention beyond school is a priority

Player drop-off after secondary school is a major concern. There is strong support for introducing a U23 age group to better align with tertiary study and early careers.

4. Player development and competitive balance matter most

The community places high value on meaningful, competitive games and player development. National League is widely seen as a key development and performance pathway.

5. Innovation must be balanced with tradition

While there is openness to new formats, the community wants to retain the rivalries, identity, and traditions that make water polo unique. Any changes should be purposeful and address real challenges.

6. High-performance ambitions are supported

There is strong support for Olympic qualification and international success, provided these ambitions strengthen the overall system and align with grassroots participation and long-term sustainability.

What happens next?

These findings will guide the next phase of the competitions review.

Water Polo New Zealand will now:

• Consider potential competition and calendar options, with a focus on National League and U21 for 2027
• Establish a National League Review Advisory Group
• Undertake targeted engagement with clubs and key stakeholders to test the practicality of proposed options
• Ensure clear communication and early confirmation of decisions to support planning for the 2027 season

Thank you again to everyone who contributed to this process. Your input is helping shape the future of water polo in Aotearoa New Zealand.

For a more in-depth understanding, we encourage you to read the full reports linked at the top of this page.