GIRLS AND WOMEN IN FOOTBALL

A Game For Everyone

Football is the largest team participation sport in Aotearoa New Zealand, with more than 180,000 registered players in 2025.

Participation in girls’ and women’s football continues to grow following the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, with a 35% increase in female football and futsal players since 2022.

Despite this momentum, females still make up just 23% of the total playing population, highlighting the opportunity to do more.

Guided by Shaping the Future – New Zealand Football’s Strategic Direction, New Zealand Football is committed to building on these strong foundations to increase participation, strengthen pathways, and welcome more girls and women into football as players, coaches, referees and leaders.

There's A Place For You In Football

Whether you’re picking up a ball for the first time, returning to the game, or looking to lead, coach or referee, there is a place for you in football.

New Zealand Football is focused on creating positive, inclusive and accessible opportunities for women and girls across the country - from grassroots to the highest level of the game.

Our Focus Areas

MILO Fantails Programme

MILO Fantails is a fun, safe football and futsal programme for girls aged 4–12.

Designed for new players, sessions focus on making friends, building confidence, learning skills, and staying active - all in a supportive environment. Hubs are running across Aotearoa New Zealand throughout the year.

CLUB EVENTS