Imagine a future where almost everyone in the Auckland region is physically active for at least two and a half hours a week, either through informal activity such as walking or jogging or in more formal activities such as playing a sport. Informal activity is easy and safe. Large numbers of people participate because of the personal enjoyment and lifestyle benefits that result. Great facilities, parks and open spaces are widely available throughout the region and people incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.

 Sports clubs and organisations are strong and offer coaching, competition and support that enables people to develop and grow in their sport. Sports facilities and venues are of a high standard and readily available for all levels of sport. As a result, participation in sport is high and growing and Auckland consistently produces a high number of winning teams and individuals.

Imagine an Auckland where you can find out information on the entire region’s physical activity and sport opportunities from a single source, where there are coordinated support systems for both physical activity and sport and where the entire Auckland Region works together to plan, co-ordinate and provide them.

The reality is, however, that whilst the Auckland region has an abundance of recreation and sporting opportunities, this is not the future being created. Our participation in physical activity is declining, our clubs and organisations are struggling, health and lifestyle issues resulting from a lack of physical activity are on the rise and there are gaps and duplication in delivery across the region. We need to change if we are to turn these trends around and we need to change quickly.

Colin Dale
Chair and Project Sponsor
Auckland Regional Sport and Recreation Strategy