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Full Noise by SN
Important update on 1476AMRaelene retains keys to Castle at Sport NZ
Alex Chapman • April 21st, 2026 2:53 pm
Raelene Castle | Photo: David Rowland/Photosport
Raelene Castle’s staying put.
Sport New Zealand has announced that after what it describes as “an open and independent recruitment process”, the 55-year-old has been reappointed as Chief Executive through until May 2030.
Sport Nation understands there were 23 applicants for the role.
Board Chair Duane Kale added that “Raelene’s reappointment reflects her deep knowledge of New Zealand’s sport sector, her strong relationships with partners and stakeholders, and the stability she brings to the Sport NZ Group.
“Raelene is a highly respected leader, and the Board looks forward to working closely with her to deliver on the outcomes we seek for sport and recreation across Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Raelene Castle said: “I’m truly honoured to lead the Sport NZ Group and work with an inspiring group of people.
“I am proud of the positive impact the sector has on Aotearoa New Zealand and I’m looking forward to continuing to support that great mahi.”
Raelene Castle said: “I’m truly honoured to lead the Sport NZ Group and work with an inspiring group of people.
“I am proud of the positive impact the sector has on Aotearoa New Zealand and I’m looking forward to continuing to support that great mahi.”
Raelene Castle | Photo: Photosport
In January, Sport NZ made the role up for grabs, after Castle's contract ended in December, with board chair Duane Kale confirming there would be a recruitment process for the position.
“It is considered best practice across Government to go to market upon completion of contracts, the board will run an open recruitment process for the Group chief executive," Kale said in a statement at the time.
"Raelene has led Sport NZ with distinction for the past five years, demonstrating unwavering commitment to advancing sport and recreation across Aotearoa."
Castle had agreed to a five-month extension to her contract while the submission process took place, with it understood the board welcomed her to reapply.
Sport Nation first revealed in February that after taking time over her summer break to consider her future with the Sport NZ, Castle would seek reappointment for her role.
Castle first joined the taxpayer funded organisation in 2020, after previously holding the same position at the helm of Rugby Australia, Netball New Zealand and the NRL's Canterbury Bulldogs.
