NZMS

Survey Results

2026 Member Survey Results: What You Told Us

Thank You

Earlier this year, NZ Masters Swimming invited members to share their views on the organisation, the services we provide, and the future direction of Masters swimming in New Zealand.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate. Your feedback provides valuable insights that will help shape our priorities over the coming years.

The overall message was encouraging. Members told us that NZMS is providing important value through events, advocacy, records, governance, club support, and opportunities to stay active, connected, and involved in swimming throughout life

What Members Value Most

Members consistently identified the following as the most valuable aspects of NZMS:

Swimming events and competition opportunities
Friendship, community, and connection
Support for Masters clubs
National records and rankings
Advocacy for Masters swimming
High standards of governance
Health, fitness, and wellbeing benefits
Opportunities for lifelong participation in swimming

Many long-standing members described NZMS as the organisation that preserves the history and traditions of Masters swimming while supporting healthy ageing and active lifestyles

Key Themes from the Survey

More Opportunities Around New Zealand

The strongest message from members was the desire for more events outside Auckland. Respondents from across New Zealand told us they would like more opportunities to participate closer to home and greater support for regional swimming activities. Travel costs and distance were identified as barriers for some members

More Local and Social Events

Members expressed strong support for: Regional meets, Skills clinics, Open water events, Social swimming activities, Virtual and postal challenges, Beginner-friendly competitions. Many members were looking for opportunities that sit between regular training sessions and national championship events.

Supporting Social Swimmers

The survey highlighted opportunities to better engage swimmers who do not participate in competitions. Many respondents said they value swimming for health, fitness, friendship, and personal achievement, and would welcome additional programmes, challenges, and social activities tailored to their interests

Growing Participation

Members suggested that Masters swimming should continue promoting itself as welcoming, inclusive, and accessible. Feedback indicated opportunities to attract: Returning swimmers, Fitness swimmers, Open water swimmers, Triathletes, Adults looking for a supportive swimming community. The message was clear: Masters Swimming is for everyone

Supporting Clubs

Many clubs reported challenges with volunteer recruitment, event hosting, administration, and membership growth. Members supported additional resources and practical tools that could make it easier for clubs to attract new members and run successful events

What's Working Well

One of the most positive findings from the survey was member satisfaction with NZMS communications and governance

Members generally reported positive experiences and expressed appreciation for the work undertaken by volunteers, committee members, and clubs throughout New Zealand

What Happens Next?

The survey has helped identify several priorities for NZMS.

Over the coming months and years we will explore opportunities to:

Increase regional engagement and participation

Support more local events and activities

Strengthen support for clubs and event organisers

Improve pathways for new and returning swimmers

Review membership options and participation models

Continue improving our website and member resources

Thank You for Helping Shape the Future of Masters Swimming

Your feedback is helping guide the future of NZ Masters Swimming. We appreciate the time, ideas and experience shared by our members and look forward to working together to grow participation, strengthen clubs, and create more opportunities for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

Together, we’re building a stronger future for Masters swimming in New Zealand.

In addition to supporting clubs and members, NZMS maintains national records and rankings, sanctions Masters swimming events, coordinates the national competition calendar and promotes participation in international Masters swimming activities. We also provide governance, policies and resources to help clubs operate successfully and continue growing Masters swimming throughout New Zealand.

The values of Masters Swimming are built around lifelong participation, personal achievement, inclusion and community. Success is measured not only by medals and records, but also by improved health, confidence, friendships and the enjoyment of swimming at every stage of life.

Whether you’re looking to swim faster, swim further, stay active, meet new people or simply rediscover your love of the water, New Zealand Masters Swimming can help you find a club and start your journey.

Ready to dive in?

Join a friendly, inclusive, and well-supported swimming community where you can stay active, enjoy yourself, build lasting friendships, and embrace swimming as a lifelong activity.