The quality of Yachting New Zealand's leadership has once again been recognised with the awarding of Sport New Zealand's Governance Mark - the highest acknowledgement of its kind in the country.
The mark is awarded to New Zealand sporting bodies through a comprehensive evaluation process based on internationally accepted governance principles. It assesses an organisation’s clarity and cohesion, its communication and engagement with its people and stakeholders, and its integrity and accountability.
Introduced in 2016, the Governance Mark is part of Sport New Zealand's good-practice governance framework for play, active recreation, and sport organisations in the country. It is valid for three years and was first awarded to Yachting New Zealand in 2021.
To achieve the Governance Mark, organisations are assessed against 37 good governance standards based on international best practices. It signifies an organisation that is clear about how it allocates time and resources, has a well-structured approach to strategy development, and effectively monitors its implementation. It also demonstrates accountability to stakeholders through structured communication and operates within a strong ethical framework, with the board understanding the strategic nature of its role.
Yachting New Zealand board chair Greg Knowles said he was pleased that the organisation received the Governance Mark again.
"The assessment of Yachting New Zealand by an independent governance expert is very thorough, and I would like to acknowledge the considerable team effort, led by the board and supported by the Yachting New Zealand leadership group," Knowles said.
"Above all, the Governance Mark provides assurance that Yachting New Zealand is on the right path, allowing us to confidently move forward."

Sport New Zealand chief executive Raelen Castle. Photo / Sport New Zealand
Sport New Zealand chief executive Raelene Castle said Yachting New Zealand should be proud of its achievement.
"We would like to congratulate Yachting New Zealand on being awarded the Governance Mark. It is well-deserved recognition for its commitment to ongoing improvement," Castle said.
"The process for achieving the mark is rigorous, and this accomplishment reflects Yachting New Zealand’s dedication and strong leadership in our sector."
For more information on Sport New Zealand's Governance Mark, click here.