I hope you all had some time to relax over the summer. The orienteering year is gearing up with evening summer series after work throughout the country. At our Board meeting a few days ago we signed off the Business Plan and budget for 2026. A main area of investment is in the schools and junior area with a trial for some new roles to support growth in participation in this area. These roles are being worked on currently and will be shared once they are ready. It’s an exciting area to put some effort and investment into – especially as this has been an area we know clubs have been keen for some support from ONZ for a few years. 

School Sport New Zealand (SSNZ) recently changed their rules to no longer allow composite teams, home schooled students and students from overseas to participate in SSNZ sanctioned events, we are working through options to continue to allow opportunities for students to orienteer.

We have an amazing opportunity for you! This year we have three vacancies on the Board, two by rotation and one out of rotation vacancy. Pete Swanson who so ably Chaired the ONZ for 5 years before me has decided to step down after 7 years on the Board. I have completed a three year term and am keen to continue on the Board for another three years (should the voting allow me) and our other vacancy is Guy Cory-Wright who is coming to the end of his second three year term. The skills the Board are keen on is someone who is passionate about orienteering and can bring skills to compliment the direction of the strategic plan and the current business plan. If you are interested in joining the ONZ Board, or know someone that would be a good candidate, please read the article later in Compass Point that has more details including the application form.