NZMS Delivers on Member Feedback

Following the valuable feedback received in the recent NZMS member survey, we are pleased to announce several significant improvements that directly address key recommendations from our members. The survey identified two priority areas for action: improving the NZMS website and reviewing membership pricing. We are delighted to report that both initiatives have now been completed.

A New and Improved NZMS Website

One of the strongest themes from the survey was the need for a more user-friendly website with easier access to information, events, resources, records, and membership details.

The NZMS website has now been completely modernised and refreshed:

👉 https://nzmastersswimming.org.nz/

The new website provides:

• Improved navigation and usability
• More detailed information for members and prospective members
• Easier access to events and club information
• Enhanced resources for affiliated clubs
• Improved visibility of records, results, and governance information
• Better information for people looking to join Masters Swimming

In addition, extensive Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) work has been completed to improve NZMS visibility in online search results. This will help more people discover Masters Swimming in New Zealand and support our ongoing membership growth objectives.

Updated Membership Pricing Structure

The survey also highlighted a desire to review membership categories and pricing structures to improve accessibility and value for members.

After reviewing member feedback, NZMS has introduced an updated pricing structure for:

• Community Memberships
• Competitive Memberships

To make joining easier throughout the year, a 50% reduced membership fee will now apply for members joining during the second half of the membership year. This provides greater flexibility and value for new and returning swimmers who decide to join later in the season.

We believe this change will help reduce barriers to participation and support further membership growth across New Zealand.

Making Better Use of GameDay

NZMS also encourages all affiliated clubs to fully utilise the GameDay membership and administration platform.

NZMS funds the GameDay service centrally for the benefit of affiliated clubs, meaning clubs can use the platform without paying a separate subscription fee. The only direct cost associated with online payments is the 4% transaction fee applied to processed payments.

By using GameDay, clubs can:

• Manage club memberships and NZMS affiliations in one system
• Process online membership payments
• Maintain accurate membership records
• Access membership and financial reporting tools
• Reduce administrative workload
• Eliminate the need for separate membership databases or manual payment systems

Importantly, using a consistent GameDay process helps avoid situations where members believe they have joined a club when they have only completed NZMS affiliation, or vice versa. A single registration pathway ensures both club membership and NZMS affiliation are correctly recorded and managed.

New Resources for Club Administrators

To support clubs in making the most of GameDay, NZMS has developed:

• A GameDay Governance and Configuration Standard
• A comprehensive Club Administrator User Guide

These resources provide practical guidance on:

• Membership administration
• Membership products and pricing
• Financial setup and reconciliation
• Reporting
• Data quality management
• User access and security
• Club configuration best practices

The guides are designed to help clubs streamline administration, improve consistency, and deliver a better experience for members.

Thank You

The recent survey demonstrated that members value the role NZMS plays in supporting clubs, providing events, maintaining national records, and fostering the Masters Swimming community throughout New Zealand.

These improvements are a direct result of member feedback, and we thank everyone who took the time to contribute their views. NZMS remains committed to supporting clubs, growing participation, and ensuring Masters Swimming continues to be accessible, welcoming, and rewarding for swimmers of all abilities.

We encourage members and clubs to explore the new website, review the updated membership options, and take advantage of the tools and resources now available.

NZ Masters Swimming