Lucy Matehaere wanted to fix something she knew was broken. As an Olympian training at the sharp end of New Zealand’s sprint canoe programme, she had seen how the system could grind down even the most dedicated athletes. So when the chance came to sit on the newly formed Athlete Voice Committee, she took it.
The committee, established in late 2023, exists for one reason: to make sure the people doing the hard yards in boats actually have a say in how the high-performance programme runs. Five current and former sprint paddlers make up the group, including Matehaere, Caitlin Regal, Hamish Legarth, Kurtis Imrie, and Zac Franich. Their job is to create a two-way channel between athletes and Canoe Racing NZ, ensuring that voices get heard and acted on when planning and decision-making happens.
“I see our role as empowering the athlete voice and improving the high-performance environment,” Matehaere says. “We want a two-way flow of communication so we can function better as a high-performing team and get clarity on both ends.”
It sounds straightforward, but it’s not just about complaints. Matehaere and her committee mates actively want to hear ideas and suggestions for better culture, functionality, and athlete experience. For Matehaere, this work matters because she knows what’s at stake. For most paddlers in the programme, this is their career, their livelihood, their identity. Having some say in how that career unfolds isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for wellbeing.
“High performance sport is amazing and we’re lucky to do what we do,” she says. “But it can also be really challenging. I want to make sure being involved in the CRNZ programme is a positive experience for everyone, both now and coming through.”
Since taking on the role, Matehaere has gained a sharper understanding of how the wider high-performance system works. She’s attended Athlete Leaders Network conferences, heard what other sports are doing, and realised the potential for real change. The committee is actively looking to expand feedback opportunities beyond standard performance reviews. They want to catch gaps in understanding, particularly for athletes moving into or out of the elite environment.
Getting feedback is simple. Athletes can reach out directly to any of the five committee members or email crnzathletevoice@gmail.com. If there’s discomfort talking to one person, there are others. Feedback can stay anonymous.
Matehaere sees the committee’s work as foundational. Athletes bring real experience, real observations, and real solutions. The question now is whether the system will listen.
