Canoe Racing New Zealand is hunting for two key talent developers to build the next generation of Olympic and world-class paddlers, opening recruitment for a National Pathway Lead and National Pathway Coordinator.
The roles sit at opposite ends of the performance spectrum but share a common purpose: connecting young paddlers in clubs across the country with the support systems and coaching expertise they need to reach high performance. The National Pathway Lead, based in Auckland or Cambridge, will design and oversee the strategic direction of athlete development nationwide, while the Pathway Coordinator, a part-time position available anywhere in Aotearoa, will deliver regional training camps, talent identification, and coach development on the ground.
Both positions come at a crucial moment for the sport. After a strong showing at international competitions in recent years, CRNZ is rebuilding its development infrastructure to ensure a steady pipeline of talent. The pathway roles will work directly with clubs, coaches, and regional stakeholders to identify emerging paddlers early and support their progression through to potential selection for the national high-performance programme.
The National Pathway Lead will carry responsibility for monitoring programme effectiveness, driving continuous improvement, and building coaching capability across the sport. It’s a strategic position requiring someone with proven sports development experience and a solid grasp of athlete development systems. Knowledge of canoeing and kayaking in New Zealand is listed as an advantage, though CRNZ is open to candidates from adjacent sports who understand what it takes to develop talent at scale.
The Pathway Coordinator role offers flexibility for someone already embedded in regional paddle sport, or looking to work independently across a portfolio of clubs and athletes. Strong organisational skills and the ability to build relationships with coaches and club leaders are essential.
Both roles emphasise working within a collaborative and purpose-driven organisation. CRNZ’s strategic focus spans participation, high performance, and domestic sport development, with Olympic and World Championship medals as the ultimate target.
Applications are open now. More details and application information are available through CRNZ’s website.
