Netball Manawatu

Ko wai au,

Ko Pūtauaki te Maunga

Ko Rangitaiki te Awa

Ko Ngāti Awa te Iwi

Ko Ngāti Hamua te Hapu

Ko Te Maapou te Marae

Ko Mataatua te Waka

Ko Ashleigh-Kate Araroa-Waerea ahau and I am proud to be the General Manager for Netball Manawatū.

I have been a part of the organisation now for 4 years, working alongside some amazing teammates in the office, a vast, diverse Board of Trustees, and an awesome open and approachable community.

What I have enjoyed the most about working for Netball Manawatu is the people and the opportunities. The opportunities to meet new people just as passionate about the game as we all are, the connections and relationships you create and of course being a part of influence and changes that benefit and impact so many of our future generations.

I am looking forward to this new challenge in how we can best support the community to thrive in all areas of the game, on and off the court.

If you need me, I am contactable via phone or email. You can guarantee to catch me on Monday to Friday on the following times:

Monday – 10.00am – 7.00pm

Tuesday – 10.00am – 9.00pm

Wednesday – 8.30am – 5.00pm

Thursday – 8.30am – 5.00pm

Friday – 10.00am – 5.00pm

If you miss me, I will get back to you as soon as I possibly can!

I look forward to meeting, connecting or re-connecting with you soon.

📧 gm@netballmanawatu.org.nz

Hello Netball Manawatū Community

What an absolute privilege it has been to work at Netball Manawatū for the past 7 months as the Community Engagement Officer. It has been great to work alongside such an amazing team and get to know the amazing Netball Community that we have here in the Manawatū. I can't wait to get to know many more of you throughout the year.

I have really enjoyed providing the Boys in Netball Programme and the No Limits Programme to many Schools in the Manawatū and Horowhenua area. I can't wait to provide this to more schools in the area. If this is something your school would like please get in touch.

It has been great to pass on my knowledge from the Intership I did with NetballSmart onto the community. It has been great to educate the community on the importance of warming up correctly and with intent. Whether you are a 5 year old starting out in the FutureFerns Programme or an adult in the summer social league it is important to make sure you are ready for the movement and impact you will encounter on the court and to help to reduce the risk of injuries.

I am really passionate about everyone in the community having fun while playing sport, and enjoying walking around the courts and meeting as many people as I can. Make sure you come and say hello if you see me walking around!

Previously I have worked at Manawatū Gymsports as a Gymnastics Coach, Recreational Lead and Coach Developer. I am still doing Coach Development at Manawatū Gymsports which I am really passionate about. It is great to be able to work together and I think working with other sports is really important in providing kids with the best opportunities and a wide range of sports.

I can't wait to continue growing in this space with you all and to provide a fun and safe space for our tamariki to learn and grow, not just in the sport, but help to shape and grow them into resilient individuals while playing a sport they love.

You may have seen me on the odd occassion, jump onto the court if teams are down a player... So if you ever need a player or a sub to give someone a break come and find me.. I won't be too far away!

If you need me you can gurantee to hear from me between these times via e-mail

Monday- 10:30am- 4:30pm

Tuesday- 10:30am- 4:00pm (In schools this day)

Wednesday- 10:30am- 5:00pm (In schools this day)

Thursday- 10:30am- 5:00pm (In schools this day)

Friday- 10:30am- 4:00pm

If you miss me, I will get back to you as soon as I possibly can!

I look forward to meeting, connecting or re- connecting with you soon.

📧 michaela@netballmanawatu.org.nz

Kia Ora Koutou,

I am so privileged to be working alongside an amazing collaborative team at Netball Manawatū, and to share my passion of Netball with you all.

I am looking forward to this new challenge, and working alongside the Netball community/ wider community, to help the development and growth in coaches.

It has been awesome connecting with the community/ wider community, and engaging with a variety of different people.

I am very excited about the opportunities to learn and grow within the community as Coach Development Officer.

I have been involved with Netball for over 20+ years. Over that time I have gained knowledge from playing, umpiring and coaching children at primary, intermediate, secondary level and adults at premier club level.

For the past 5 years I have had the pleasure of coaching development and representative teams for Netball Manawatū. I am very passionate about seeing people developing and growing within thhe Netball community, to learn in a positive, fun, safe environement, to grow with confidence, and to enjoy the game of Netball.

I am very excited about the opportunities to learn and grow within the community as the Coach Development Officer.

If you need me, you can gurantee to hear from me between these times via e-mail :

Monday 10:30am- 6:30pm

Tuesday- 10:30am- 5:00pm

Wednesday- 8:30am- 5:00pm

Thursday- 8:30am- 5:00pm

Friday- 10:30am- 4:30pm

If you miss me, I will get back to you as soon as I possibly can!

I look forward to connecting or reconnecting with you.

📧 natasha@netballmanawatu.org.nz

Alisha Paewai

Competitions Officer

Alisha is our Competitions Officer and your go to person for all things competitions and junior tournaments at Netball Manawatū. From Future Ferns right through to Premier 1 and Premier 2 competitions, Alisha oversees the day to day management of our competition systems, including draws, scheduling, and competition enquiries.

Whether you have a question about registrations, draws, game times, or competition processes, Alisha will either have the answer or connect you with the right person who does.

When she's not busy managing competitions, Alisha also supports the team with social media and website content, so keep an eye out as our online platforms receive a fresh new look in the near future.

Alisha works part time and is generally in the office Monday to Friday between 9.00am and 3.00pm. You'll also see her on selected competition days helping with event delivery and operational support.

📧 competitions@netballmanawatu.org.nz

Shari Zika

Representative Lead

Shari is our Representative Lead and is the key contact for all things representative netball at Netball Manawatū. Working in a part time capacity, she oversees the planning, coordination, and ongoing development of our representative programme, while also supporting the implementation of policies and procedures across the representative space.

From working alongside coaches and managers to liaising with other Centres and Netball New Zealand, Shari plays an important role in ensuring clear communication and strong support systems for everyone involved in our representative pathway.

When she's not focused on representative programmes, Shari is always happy to lend a hand across the wider organisation and support the operational needs of the team where needed.

If you have any questions relating to representative netball, the best way to contact Shari is via email. Her hours vary depending on the demands of the representative season, but you're most likely to hear from her between 10.00am and 3.00pm during the week.

📧 representative@netballmanawatu.org.nz

Lisa has worn many hats throughout her time in the sporting community and is someone who truly understands netball from every angle. Having spent much of her life around the courts, Lisa's journey has seen her progress from player, to umpire, to bench official, giving her a unique appreciation for all facets of the game.

Her involvement with Netball Manawatū extends beyond the court. As a Board member, Lisa has previously supported the organisation's financial portfolio and now proudly serves as Board Chair. Her ability to connect with people, understand differing perspectives, and build strong relationships makes her a respected leader within the organisation.

Known for her approachable nature and willingness to listen, Lisa values collaboration and ensuring all voices are heard. Her experience across a variety of roles allows her to appreciate the challenges and opportunities that exist throughout our netball community.

Outside of Netball Manawatū, Lisa dedicates her time and expertise to several community organisations, including Softball Manawatū. Her passion for community sport, governance, and supporting people to succeed continues to make a positive impact across the wider Manawatū region.

Bevan is a Professor of Work and Organisation at Massey Business School, bringing a wealth of academic, leadership, and governance experience to the Netball Manawatū Board. With a strong background in organisational development, strategy, and people leadership, he provides valuable insight into the governance and long-term sustainability of sporting organisations.

Bevan has held governance roles with a number of regional sporting organisations, including Eventfinda Stadium, Harbour Sport, and Northern Football. Through these experiences, he has developed a strong understanding of the sporting landscape, community engagement, and the importance of creating environments where both people and organisations can thrive.

His connection to netball spans many years, having previously served on the boards of Netball Otago and the Netball Northern Zone. This experience has provided him with a broad perspective of the netball pathway and the challenges and opportunities facing the sport at both regional and national levels.

Beyond governance, Bevan is passionate about supporting participation in sport and the positive impact it can have on individuals, families, and communities. As a proud netball parent with two daughters who play and enjoy the game, he understands firsthand the important role community sport plays in developing confidence, connections, and lifelong enjoyment.

Bevan's combination of governance expertise, strategic thinking, and genuine passion for sport helps support the continued growth and success of Netball Manawatū and the wider netball community.

Matt Kidby

Board Member

Matt brings a breadth of governance experience to Netball Manawatū, having held a number of Board and community leadership roles across the Manawatū region. His involvement in a variety of sporting and community organisations has provided him with a broad understanding of the opportunities, challenges, and evolving needs of community sport.

As a former Chair of Netball Manawatū, Matt has played a role in supporting the organisation's governance, strategic planning, and long-term sustainability. His experience across different sectors allows him to contribute a wider perspective to Board discussions and decision-making.

Matt's background in sport extends beyond netball, with strong connections to the rugby community. The knowledge and experiences gained through his involvement across different sporting codes provide useful insights as Netball Manawatū continues to develop and adapt to meet the needs of its members.

Outside of Netball Manawatū, Matt enjoys supporting his whānau in their various sporting and community pursuits. He remains actively involved with Kia Toa Rugby Club through coaching and supporting rugby at a grassroots level. His ongoing commitment to community sport reflects his belief in creating positive environments where participants, volunteers, and organisations can succeed.

Melissa currently serves on the Netball Manawatū Centre Incorporated Board, bringing extensive governance, legal, and community experience to the organisation. Professionally, she is a Director of Innes Dean Lawyers, proud sponsors of Netball Manawatū, and serves the wider Manawatū community as a Notary Public.

Melissa is an accredited collaborative lawyer with a strong focus on helping individuals and families navigate legal processes in a way that supports positive outcomes and long-term wellbeing. Her work is centred on finding practical and people-focused solutions, with a particular interest in ensuring families are equipped to move forward and thrive, even during challenging circumstances.

She also has a special interest in supporting older members of the community, advocating for their autonomy, dignity, and wellbeing. Through her role on the Lawyer for Subject Person panel, Melissa regularly appears in the Family Court when required, providing support and representation in matters affecting vulnerable individuals. Her expertise is highly regarded within the legal profession, and she is a regular presenter at educational seminars, professional development events, and conferences throughout New Zealand.

Melissa's strong understanding of governance, risk, strategic thinking, and community engagement makes her a valuable contributor around the Board table. She is passionate about supporting organisations that have a positive impact within their communities and helping create opportunities for people of all ages to succeed.

Outside of her professional commitments, Melissa is a proud mum of two busy teenagers and a familiar face around the netball courts. Whether supporting from the sidelines at Vautier Park or taking the court herself, she enjoys being actively involved in the game and understands the important role sport plays in building confidence, connections, and community. Her combined passion for people, community service, and netball makes her a valued member of the Netball Manawatū Board.

Chelsea Hopkins

Board Member

Chelsea joined the Netball Manawatū Board following a successful appointment after serving in a youth advisory capacity, providing an important younger voice and perspective around the Board table.

Her strong community connections, combined with her understanding of the challenges and aspirations of younger generations, bring valuable insight to the organisation's decision-making. Chelsea is passionate about ensuring Netball Manawatū remains relevant, inclusive, and connected to the needs of its members both now and into the future.

Coming from a farming background and now working within a professional office environment, Chelsea offers a diverse perspective shaped by a range of experiences. Her ability to relate to people from different backgrounds and industries enhances the Board's understanding of the wider community it serves.

Outside of Netball, Chelsea enjoys taking time to recharge and maintain a healthy balance between work, sport, and life. Whether that involves getting active through other recreational activities or simply enjoying some well-earned downtime indoors, she values the opportunity to connect with friends and whānau and make the most of her time away from the court.

Chelsea's willingness to challenge thinking, contribute fresh ideas, and support positive change makes her an important part of the governance team and the future growth of Netball Manawatū.

Mārie brings governance experience to Netball Manawatū community in her role on the Board. Having served on various community and organisation boards, her extensive knowledge on Governance operations is invaluable to our organisation. Many members will recognise her as the friendly face who previously welcomed visitors through the café and bar, where she built strong relationships with players, officials, volunteers, and supporters alike.

Wanting to continue contributing to the organisation in new ways, Mārie stepped away from her operational role to focus on supporting the strategic growth and future direction of Netball Manawatū. Her passion for people and commitment to ensuring the organisation continues to thrive is evident in everything she does.

Mārie's strong strategic mindset, combined with her ability to see the bigger picture, allows her to contribute across a wide range of areas. Whether discussing long term opportunities, organisational sustainability, or community engagement, she consistently brings valuable insight and perspective to Board discussions.

Outside of Netball, Mārie is passionate about helping people achieve their goals and aspirations. Through her work in business development, she enjoys supporting individuals and organisations to grow, develop, and succeed, helping them take meaningful steps towards achieving their ambitions. Her people-first approach and commitment to empowering others align strongly with the values of Netball Manawatū.

Her dedication, vision, and willingness to support the organisation wherever needed make her a highly valued member of the Netball Manawatū Board.