Apply Now: New Zealand Sports Leaders India Delegation Program

Deadline: 16-Mar-2026

The Asia New Zealand Foundation invites six emerging and established sports leaders to participate in a professional delegation to Mumbai and Ahmedabad, India. The programme provides on-the-ground exposure to India’s sports industry, networking opportunities, cultural experiences, and funding for travel, accommodation, and most expenses, aiming to strengthen New Zealand’s Asia-facing sports leadership.

About the Programme

The Asia New Zealand Foundation Sports Delegation offers New Zealand sports leaders the opportunity to explore India’s growing sports industry firsthand. The programme focuses on developing Asia capability, fostering professional networks, and deepening cultural understanding through immersive experiences in Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Purpose and Objectives

The delegation aims to:

• Increase Asia capability among New Zealand sports leaders through in-country engagement

• Deepen people-to-people connections via meetings with sports sector leaders in India

• Develop cultural confidence and understanding through experiential learning

• Support long-term relationship building for future exchange, collaboration, and dialogue

• Strengthen New Zealand’s Asia-facing sports networks

Programme Activities

Participants will:

• Engage in meetings and networking sessions with Indian sports leaders

• Attend site visits and cultural experiences in Mumbai and Ahmedabad

• Gain insights into India’s sports ecosystem, which is preparing to host the Commonwealth Games 2030

• Build professional relationships and expand understanding of international sports administration, coaching, and athlete development

Funding and Support

The Asia New Zealand Foundation provides:

• Return economy-class airfares from New Zealand to India

• Domestic transportation within India

• Accommodation and most meals

• Coverage for incidental expenses during the delegation

Participants are responsible for:

• Travel insurance (mandatory)

• Visa fees

• Personal spending money

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents

• Be in good health and available for the full duration of the delegation

• Be contributing to the sports sector in roles such as administrators, coaches, officials, or athlete development professionals

• Demonstrate interest in strengthening engagement with Asia

Participant Requirements

Successful applicants will:

• Agree to the standard Asia New Zealand Foundation funding terms

• Submit a 600–700 word article with photos for the Foundation’s website

• Provide a report detailing experiences and use of funding

• Share insights and knowledge gained with New Zealand sports networks

• Remain engaged with the Foundation’s network post-delegation

Why the Programme Matters

The delegation helps participants:

• Develop in-depth knowledge of India’s sports sector

• Build cross-border professional networks

• Enhance leadership and Asia engagement skills

• Promote long-term collaboration and exchange between New Zealand and India in sports development

How to Apply

1. Confirm eligibility as a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident engaged in sports leadership

2. Prepare a personal statement outlining your contribution to the New Zealand sports sector and interest in Asia engagement

3. Submit the application through the Asia New Zealand Foundation portal

4. Prepare to commit fully to the programme and post-delegation reporting requirements

FAQs

1. Who can apply? Emerging and established sports leaders in New Zealand, including administrators, coaches, officials, and athlete development professionals.

2. Which cities will participants visit? Mumbai and Ahmedabad (Amdavad), India.

3. What does the funding cover? Return airfares, domestic transport, accommodation, most meals, and incidental expenses.

4. What expenses must participants cover? Travel insurance, visa costs, and personal spending money.

5. Is participation mandatory for the full programme? Yes, full attendance is required.

6. Are participants required to submit reports? Yes, including an article for the Foundation website and a post-delegation report.

7. What is the main goal? To strengthen New Zealand sports leaders’ engagement with Asia, build professional networks, and develop cultural confidence.

Conclusion

The Asia New Zealand Foundation Sports Delegation offers a unique opportunity for emerging and established sports leaders to gain hands-on experience in India’s dynamic sports sector. Participants will build networks, deepen cultural understanding, and develop leadership skills that strengthen New Zealand’s sports engagement across Asia.

For more information, visit Asia New Zealand Foundation.