Year Ended 31 October 2024
Pacific Cup Best and fairest and Kahu
Captain Liv Waldron in action
Chairman’s Report
A challenging yet fulfilling year saw AFL New Zealand take a significant step forward for the sport in Aotearoa. The long-anticipated return of the New Zealand Falcons to the international stage, coupled with the highly successful debut of the New Zealand Kahu at the 2024 Pacific Cup, reflects the continued growth and development of AFL across the country.
The re-establishment of our senior international programmes highlights AFL New Zealand’s dedication to creating pathways for athletes to grow and showcase their skills. This milestone represents an essential element of our vision to elevate AFL in New Zealand.
Building on the success of the 2023 Premiership season, 2024 brought further advancements. The competition progressed toward full regionalisation with the inclusion of the Canterbury-based Southern Stars in the Women’s Premiership. This marked a significant milestone as it established the Women’s Premiership as a fully regional competition. Additionally, an increase in Wellington-based players joining the Central Giants brought the Men’s Premiership closer to this same goal.
The Premiership season laid the perfect platform for the international season ahead, sparking a higher level of play and setting the foundations upon which the national teams would be selected upon. Most importantly for the New Zealand Kahu, as for many this was the first real taste of the 16 a-side format on a full AFL field and served as a strong foundation for the international calendar, raising the level of play and providing selectors with a platform to identify talent for the national squads.
Following on from their inaugural match in 2023, the All Stars and Falcons faced off on 21st April at North Harbour Stadium. The Falcons vs All Stars game presents increased opportunities for:
• New Zealand-based Australians residing in New Zealand but may not qualify for New Zealand selection.
• Young players aiming to stake their claim for future New Zealand Falcons selection.
• Senior players eager to experience international competition for the first time.
The re-establishment of our senior international programmes highlights AFL New Zealand’s dedication to creating pathways for athletes to grow and showcase their skills.
From a coaching standpoint, bringing together New Zealand’s top 40 players for this historic clash presented a tremendous advantage for everyone involved. Not only raises the standard of football for emerging players but also offering the perfect platform for players to stake their claim for selection into international squad selections.
The 2024 Falcons vs All Stars featured a majority of players looking for a place in the New Zealand Falcons Pacific Cup wider squad. The Falcons emerged victorious once again, but several All Stars impressed selectors, earning spots in the wider squad and, for some, the final squad at the Pacific Cup.
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2024 AFL Grand Final Winners
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The Falcons vs All Stars faced off again
The 2024 Pacific Cup was New Zealand’s first international tournament in 7 years, and both the Men’s and Women’s national teams performed admirably. The New Zealand Falcons (Men’s) came up just short in two close games against Nauru and Papua New Guinea, but bounced back against Fiji beating them twice, most notably in the playoff game, where they also put on the largest score of the Pacific Cup.
The Women’s team made an impressive debut to the international stage. Following a narrow 2-point loss to Nauru in their opening match, they then went on to defeat Papua New Guinea and Tonga, earning their place in the Grand Final where they once again fell just short to Nauru. Although they didn’t come away champions, their performances in the Pacific Cup showcased immense talent New Zealand had to offer to women’s AFL and provided a platform for future success.
The success of our National sides on the international stage showcases why our key focus remains on youth development and providing in school and out of school opportunities for youth to play, grow and develop through AFL. The importance of nurturing and developing young talent through AFL New Zealand’s School, Youth and Academy programmes became evident through the Pacific Cup with 30 players from both the Kahu and the Falcons having all come through the AFL New Zealand pathway,
The success of our National sides on the international stage showcases why our key focus remains on youth development and providing in school and out of school opportunities for youth to play, grow and develop through AFL.
The New Zealand Men’s team featured a few major headline stories, with Mykelti Lefau earning a full AFL rookie contract with the Richmond Tigers, making his debut for the side just 36 days after signing his contract and becoming one of their key forward targets, before unfortunately suffering a season ending injury. His story is the perfect example of what is possible for New Zealand talent looking to pursue a career in AFL and may pave the way for more New Zealand athletes in the future.
One of the most exciting spaces to do so is in the Women’s space with many talented New Zealand heritage players still making waves within AFLW. The 2024 Women’s Heritage side featured 16 AFLW players, with more AFLW listed players made unavailable due to injuries. Jasmine
Garner from North Melbourne, was once again a standout player in the 2024 AFLW season and would eventually go on to win the Premiership with her club and be named best on Ground in the AFLW Grand Final.
Building awareness about the importance of sports and the impact of our organisation is essential for long-term success. Through social media, and broadcast, we expanded our reach to a wider audience and gained greater support.
During the 2024 home and away season, the network aired six live games each week, with the entire 2024 Finals series broadcast live. The AFLW coverage also grew significantly, featuring a minimum of three matches per week, including live broadcasts of all AFLW Finals games.
We’re thrilled to have Sky TV on board, broadcasting six games per week for the AFL season. This partnership not only allows our community to enjoy elite-level AFL but also helps introduce the sport to new audiences. We look forward to maintaining and strengthening this collaboration in the years ahead.
Once again, our partnerships and strategic alliances have allowed us to maximise our impact on the wider community through shared resources and expertise. The Lion Foundation, Foundation North, Pub Charity, Four Winds, City Councils, Community Matters, Regional Sports Trusts and various other strategic partnerships with other sporting codes, have been pivotal in advancing AFL in New Zealand.
Foundation North and the Lion Foundation’s funding facilitated AFL New Zealand’s community programs and bolstered its staffing, supporting initiatives from grassroots to high performance.
Our new strategic partnerships with other regional sporting organisations also allowed AFL New Zealand to dip into new funding avenues, and opened the door to further empower AFL New Zealand in providing more opportunities for Tamariki, instilling essential, cross transferable skills for various sports. We express deep appreciation to all of our partners for their dedication to enhancing the wellbeing of New Zealand’s youth and leaving a lasting impact on our AFL community.
Originally elected in 2015 AFLNZ Elected Director, Andrew Mckenzie was re-elected in 2024, where he will continue to bring a wealth of experience to the board. Having played locally for over 20 and with over 20 years of senior executive experience in both corporate and operational roles, his extensive knowledge and range of contacts are a huge asset to AFL New Zealand
Re-Elected Director Andrew Mckenzie
2024 also saw the end of an era for AFL New Zealand as long standing CEO, Rob Vanstam left the organisation after 20 years at the helm. Rob’s work over the years yielded many successes, from being the driving force behind getting AFL New Zealand’s in school programmes to new heights, to bringing the first AFL game played outside of Australia to New Zealand, his hard work and dedication to expanding
the awareness and opportunities for AFL in New Zealand and has laid the foundation for which the sport can continue to thrive.
Departed
CEO
The Partnership between AFL New Zealand and the AFL continues to expand, fostering the growth of Australian Football (AFL) in New Zealand, increasing the sport’s reach and popularity, Exciting new developments between the two organisations in 2024 will reap an exciting future for the sport in New Zealand in 2025, as the AFL looks to become more invested with New Zealand.
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NZ Heritage Team star Jasmine Garner wins the Best on Ground medal in the 2024 AFLW Grand Final
Rob Vanstam
Bernard Saundry
AFL New Zealand Chairman
The year 2024 continued the momentum gained in 2023, allowing us to expand our reach and deepen our engagement with schools and communities. This year, we provided 8,975 participants with 24,294 personal experiences across various settings, including in-school programs, after-school sessions, holiday programmes, and community centres.
Through the AVJennings AFL KiwiKick program, we introduced thousands of young New Zealanders to fundamental movement skills, including Kick, Catch, Pass, and Bounce, alongside stability and locomotive skills. Our goal remains to encourage lifelong physical activity by aligning with Sport New Zealand’s Physical Literacy approach.
The program continues to support Healthy Active Learning, an initiative that enhances the wellbeing of tamariki and rangatahi through healthy eating, drinking, and quality physical activity. This collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring schools and kura receive the necessary support to foster active, engaged students.
The AVJennings AFL KiwiKick program operates during school hours and after school, reaching 31 schools through in-school programmes, 10 after-school programmes and 8 holiday programmes.
... reaching 31 schools through in school programmes, 10 afterschool programmes and 8 holiday programmes
Each participant receives between 1 to 8 coaching sessions, delivered by qualified coaches who ensure children gain confidence and competence in fundamental movements essential for various sports.
The AFL New Zealand Youth Competition offering pathways for boys and girls aged 10 to 17, allowing them to continue developing their skills and passion for
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AFL. The competition fosters a love for the game while ensuring structured growth opportunities for young athletes.
AFL New Zealand remains committed to empowering teachers by involving them in sessions, providing professional development, and offering online resources to support ongoing program delivery. Each school participating in
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AFL: The game for everyone
the AVJennings AFL KiwiKick Pathway program receives a resource kit, which includes:
• AFL KiwiKick Coaching manuals
• Detailed diagrams of skills, games, and lesson plans
• Access to AFL KiwiKick online modules
These resources enable teachers and community coaches to sustain AFL sessions long after AFL New Zealand coaches have left.
With support from AVJennings, Sport New Zealand, Aktive Sport and Recreation, Regional Sporting Trusts, and Community Trust organizations, AFL New Zealand continues to introduce AFL to new communities. The Tu Manawa Active fund has played a crucial role in expanding projects that provide greater access and exposure to AFL.
Over the past decade, many young athletes have progressed from the AVJennings AFL KiwiKick program to the AFL New Zealand Youth Competition. As we move forward, we will continue to prioritise inclusive, high-quality sport experiences that foster participation, skill development, and a lifelong connection to physical activity.
Reg Ranchhod
AFL New Zealand General Manager
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AFL New Zealand has diversified the programmes available to Secondary Schools to ensure flexibility that suits the outcomes of your school and provides opportunities for students and staff to participate in all facets of AFL.
INTRODUCTION TO AFL
Introduction to AFL teaches AFL skills and uses modified games to reach the end product of playing a full game of AFL. The programme can be combined with junior class units of work, linked to curriculum programmes and lead into competition programmes.
AFL LEADERSHIP
AFL Leadership takes on the concept of students provided with leadership skills and the capability of running a tournament within their own school or at local primary and intermediate schools. Sessions focus on the elements of game understanding, coaching, umpiring and game and event management.
COACH THE COACHES
Coach the Coaches takes a look at the fundamentals of AFL and the AFL Kiwikick programme. After 6 – 8 practical structured sessions your students will assist delivery of the AFL Kiwikick programme in local Primary or Intermediate schools in your area.
AFL HOUSE RULES
The AFL House Rules Programme focuses on providing students with easy access to participate in the new and dynamic sport of AFL. The competition takes place at a venue determined by your school, most often within your own school grounds. This alleviates travel costs for the school and the participants and more importantly provides opportunities to more students beyond the elite school representative teams.
The format is a perfect for competition between classes or houses and can be played by boys, girls or in a mixed format that utilises touch, tag or tackle modifications. It’s a new fun way to get more kids, more active, more often and improve the skills of Kick, Catch, Pass and Bounce at the same time.
AFL House Rules can be combined with a number of other AFL NZ Secondary School programmes to involve coordination by fellow students and curriculum based activities or as a selection trial for your AFL Cup team. The “Teachers versus Students” Clash is a great way to finish this fun programme.
AFL FORCE BACK
This programme focuses on the two main fundamental skills of AFL, Kick and Catch. Through a modified game participants gain an insight into the skills required for the bigger game of AFL, that can also be used as a Have a go or participation/social competition.
With the introduction of AFL Force Back through Have a go or Competition, links can be made to Secondary School AFL Cup Interschool competition and outside of school opportunities with the AFL New Zealand Youth Competition.
AFL CROSS CODE SKILL ACQUISITION
Cross Code Skill Acquisition has been developed for Secondary schools using AFL to assist with skill acquisition and development in other codes. With that in mind the programme has been designed specifically to focus on the two skills of kicking and catching.
Links can be made from Cross Code Skill acquisition for curriculum, other codes and preparation for Secondary School Interschool competition the AFL Cup and AFL New Zealand Youth pathway opportunities leading to National representation.
AFL COMBINE
The Secondary Schools AFL Combine Programme is underpinned by an exciting testing format that provides participants with the opportunity to compete in a number of skills and athletic testing.
Each of the events within the programme has a focus on fun and looks to provide those involved with motivation to improve themselves in varying facets of skill and fitness.
Speed, agility, endurance, suppleness and hand and eye coordination, are all attributes that if provided in the right format, can inspire students to become more involved in not only participating in sport but also monitoring their own progress.
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AFL CUP
The AVJennings Saints AFL Cup is an Inter School competition for Junior (Years 9-10) and Senior (Years 11-13) students based on fundamental movement and ball skills of AFL for boys and girls. The programme provides introductory sessions and resources presented by qualified AFL New Zealand Staff to introduce a new and dynamic sport to students. The skills of ‘Kick, Catch, Pass and Bounce’ are perfectly matched to cross reference any number of sports. The 9 a side format is suitable for rugby size fields and with three reserves per team, team numbers are easy to coordinate.
GATEWAY
AFL New Zealand can provide Gateway students with the perfect opportunity to gain experience within the Sports coaching industry delivering the AFL Kiwikick programme to Primary and Intermediate school students.
Reg Ranchhod
AFL New Zealand Schools Manager
SUCCESS STORY
The AFL Cup offers gameplay and skill development for secondary schools
AFL New Zealand would like to acknowledge and thank the Pub Charity for their support in the development of AFL within New Zealand.
AFLNZ extends its heartfelt thanks for the steadfast support it has received, particularly from Pub Charity, in advancing the development of AFL across New Zealand. The generosity of Pub Charity directly aids AFLNZ’s employment initiatives, fostering the leadership and infrastructure necessary to drive programs that empower youth.
Pub Charity’s funding is crucial in enabling AFLNZ to continue offering the AFL KiwiKick programme to primary school children nationwide. This program, designed for children aged 5 to 12, focuses on developing fundamental movement skills such as Kick, Catch, Pass, and Bounce, while also promoting stability and locomotor movement skills. The goal is to inspire participants to embrace an active lifestyle for life, aligning with Sport New Zealand’s “Physical Literacy” approach. Physical literacy refers to “the motivation, confidence, physical competence,
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knowledge, and understanding required to engage in physical activity and sport for life.” In partnership with Sport New Zealand, AFL New Zealand is committed to promoting and supporting the concept of physical literacy by exploring new ways to align and deliver this philosophy.
The AFL KiwiKick programme is designed to teach fundamental movement skills to children aged 5 to 12. These skills are valuable across a range of sports, and the programme ensures that every participant becomes confident and competent in these essential abilities. Qualified AFL KiwiKick coaches lead engaging and enjoyable sessions both during school hours and after school, with each child receiving between 1 and 8 coaching sessions.
AFL New Zealand is dedicated to continuing these programmes, as they achieve key outcomes that encourage children to lead healthy lives through sport. Following the six in-school sessions,
children can participate in an after-school programme held on school grounds.
With the ongoing support of Pub Charity, AFLNZ will maintain these initiatives, furthering the positive outcomes that promote healthy lifestyles through sport. Furthermore, participants aged 5 to 12 who have completed the AFL KiwiKick programme over the past eight years have gone on to compete in the AFLNZ Youth Competition for both boys and girls, creating a lasting legacy of positive change through the unifying power of sport.
Regional Leagues
Auckland AFLMen
Tigers run home to another undefeated season
North Shore Tigers 12 10 82
Waitakere Magpies 7 3 45
The North Shore Tigers run home with a huge fourth quarter to beat the Waitakere magpies in the 2024 AAFL Grand Final.
A well contested first half saw the Tigers start to slowly pull away from the Magpies, but a strong 3rd quarter performance saw the pagpies get on a roll and work their way back to within 10.
A true premiership quarter was required from both sides to lock in the win and the Tigers stood up kicking 39 points in the final quarter to complete another unbeaten season.
A much more balanced competition in 2024, the AAFL is heading towards an exciting, highly compeittive future and the league is ecstatic about the continued development of all clubs and for what 2025 holds.
Auckland AFLWomen
Tigers edge out Magpies in a 1 point thriller
North Shore Tigers 4 4 28
Waitakere Magpies 3 9 27
A thrilling AAFLW Grand Final has seen the North Shore Tigers go back to back after a 1-point win over the Waitakere Magpies
Another tightly contested first half saw the Magpies lead by just 5 points. With no clear favoured scoring side, both clubs just had to keep the pressure on if they wanted to come away on top.
The Magpies piled on the pressure and slowly started increased the gap heading into the fourth quarter but just like in the men’s final, the accuracy from the Tigers in the fourth saw them swing the game in their favour. The Magpies picked up the pace and worked their way back into the game, but there just was not enough time for them to gain back the lead, the Tigers winning by the slimmest of margins
Wellington AFL - Men
Whataitai edge out Ngake to win 2024 season
In a fresh fromat to further grow and develop the game in Wellington, Whataitai has narrowly beaten Ngake to take out the 2024 WAFL season.
The new look season in 2024 saw a much more balanced competition with both sides going back and forward in the winners circle, with Whataitai managing to hold strong for the final game.
The balanced competition is an exiting prospect for the league and 2025 looks to be even better.
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Wellington AFLWomen
South Coast Swell complete the 3-peat
The South Coast Swell have completed the 3-peat, finishing strong against Nga Manu Rere in the closest WAFLW season yet.
The Swell were fast out of the gates, putting on three first-quarter goals and taking a 20-point lead into the first break. From then on, it was an arm wrestle with both teams going score for score. Ngā manu kicked a goal early in the last term to give them a chance with the wind behind them, but the Swell were able to hang on and take out the 2024 WALFW cup.
It was a high-quality game, played in great spirit, and reflected what has been an awesome season of women’s footy in the Capital. Congratulations to all involved.
Canterbury AFLMen
Eastern Blues cruise to 3rd consecutive title
Eastern Blues 14 11 95
Christchurch Bulldogs 6 4 40
The Blues’ threepeat dream became a reality with a 55-point grand final win over the Christchurch Bulldogs.
The Blues dominated physically from the first bounce and maintained that intensity for four quarters against a gallant opponent.
Three-time premiership skipper Jay Johnson won the coveted Nicky Dow Medal as the CAFL’s official best on ground in the decider
It’s been another unforgettable year for the club - and while the Blues aren’t quite done soaking up this achievement just yet, already having half an eye on a recordbreaking fourth straight title in 2025.
Canterbury AFLWomen
Panthers win first premiership
12 7 79
8 7 55
The Panthers have won their first CAFLW Premiership title, beating the Dolphins in the Grand Final.
It was another closely fought game, with both sides showing outstanding improvement throughout the six rounds played this year. Ultimately the Panthers were able to take their opportunities when presented and grab four wins to the Dolphins two.
A big year for the CAFLW, gaining their own AFLNZ Premiership side, and 7 players making the New Zealand Kahu squad. The success for the squad showcases a bright future for Women’s football in Canterbury.
AFL Broadcast
Sky Television and SKY Sport is the major broadcast partner of AFL in New Zealand and the home of LIVE sport in New Zealand.
Sky Television and SKY Sport is the major broadcast partner of AFL in New Zealand and the home of LIVE sport in New Zealand.
Featuring some of the best local and international sports content, SKY Sport offers New Zealand sports fans world class coverage. World renowned for its LIVE sports production, SKY Sport is heavily involved in producing sport in New Zealand - from grassroots sport to the pinnacle of international competition.
SKY Sport’s 2024 AFL coverage increased from five to six LIVE matches each week during the 2024 Toyota AFL Premiership Season. The AFL Women’s Premiership Season also featured prominently featuring two to four live games per week along with access On Demand at any time via the Sky Go app.
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In addition to the live games, Sky coverage included magazine shows; AFL 360, On the Couch and The Back Page, bringing total weekly viewing to over 20 hours of AFL per week during the football season.
Alternative options to view AFL in New Zealand exist through the Watch AFL platform. The subscription based service, includes every live game throughout the AFL and AFLW seasons, replays and AFL magazine shows.
For the AFLW, viewers can stream every game live through the AFLW app.
SENZ Radio has also commenced the addition of weekly segments covering the AFL season. We look forward to continued support from our broadcast partners in 2025.
High Performance
The 2024 High Performance Programme was once again well supported through the formation of regional Youth Programmes in Auckland, Wellington and Canterbury
AFL New Zealand Academy
The AFL New Zealand Academy selects its participants from the AFL New Zealand Youth Programme with the opportunity for selection to also take place from Secondary School Competitions and programmes throughout New Zealand.
The AFL New Zealand Academy improves the skills and fitness of athletes, through a training and development programme that assists athletes that in some cases, have had no previously exposure to AFL.
Academy athletes will participate in skill development, athletic testing and measurement, game play and personal development to provide a pathway for them to excel in AFL. The Academy consists of three levels:
Level 1: for athletes that are new entrants to Academy and the New Zealand representative pathway
Level 2: for athletes continuing their Academy and New Zealand representative pathway with their next step, U18 or Senior New Zealand representation
Youth Girls: for female athletes aged between 14 to 17 years of age, both new and continuing in the Academy and New Zealand representative pathway
Further opportunities arising from the AFL New Zealand Academy include, selection into New Zealand Academy teams, New Zealand Kahu Youth Girls, AFL New Zealand National Combine selection, access to talent scouts and AFL International Scholarships
New Zealand Falcons vs All Stars
The NZ Falcons vs All Stars game has been a tromendous addition to the calendar and provides a solid contest for players currently playing at the highest level. With international travel restrictions now disappearing, it is expected that a surge of opportunities will present themselves to the New Zealand Teams Programme.
AFL Pacific Cup
The Pacific Cup saw the reintroduction to international football for the NZ Falcons and saw the introduction of the NZ Kahu to the international stage.
After a hiatus due to to travel restricitons, the International Cup, typically held every 3 years, was split into three seperate cups, in an effort to reintegrate International AFL, forming the Trans Atlantic Cup, the Pacific Cup and the Asia Cup.
Teams were solely comprised of footballers who must be nationals of the country they represent. No expatriate Australians are eligible to play. A nine day tour of Australia including 4 matches ensures that participants are treated to an amazing experience.
AFL Pacific Cup NZ Falcons
The Men’s Pacific Cup saw the Falcons play in their first international competition in 7 years, and a very different looking side from the last Falcons side that played in Australia, With 11 players making their debut for the side.
The Mens competition saw the Falcons play against Nauru, Papua New Guinea and Fiji. Not being effected as greatly by the pandemic, the Nauru and Papua New Guinea sides, had contuned to grow immensely and were both fromiddable sides, with the Falcons falling short to both sides by within 10.
The Falcons finally starting clicking against Fiji, gaining their first win of the tournament before putting on a show in their rematch against Fiji in the Playoff game, winning by 64 points and putting on the largest score of the Pacific Cup.
AFL Pacific Cup NZ Kahu
The Women’s Pacific Cup saw the Kahu make their international debut, with a very new inexperienced side, but featured many talented cross coders who found their feet on the AFL field.
The Women’s competition saw the Kahu play against Nauru, Papua New Guinea and Tonga. Not knowing what to expect, the Kahu exceeded expectations and beuatifully displayed what New Zealand has to offer for the Woemn’s game.
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In their first game against Nauru the Kahu, still finding their feet, and learning to play together, fell just short of an incredible debut victory with Nauru holding on to win by just 2 points.
Their second game against Papua New Guinea was one to behold, and in wet and wild conditions, the Kahu were relentless in their efforts to get their first win, and managed to just get on top, winning by 3 points in a tough fought contest.
In their game against Tonga, they really started to click, and it showed, as they put on a great wet weather perfromance to comfortably beat tonga by 39, and secure a place in the grand final in their first international tournament.
Unfortunately, the Kahu fell just short of a dream run against Nauru in the Pacific Cup Grand Final, but their efforts showcased the talent and potential for the Kahu in the future.
Kate Turnbull was a goal kicking Machine for the Kahu at the 2024 Pacific Cup
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NZ Heritage star Abbey Dowrick had another fantastic AFLW season
NZ Heritage star Dustin Martin retired in 2024
Nz Heritage Team member Jordan Ridley returned from injury for Essendon in 2024
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Axel Oswald having another great game against Nauru at the 2024 Pacific Cup
Falcons Captain Andy Howison kicking through wet and wild conditions
The Canterbury based Southern Stars joined the Women’s Premiership in 2024
AFL New Zealand Premiership
The Men’s and Women’s national competition provides the highest standard of football in NZ.
The AFL New Zealand Premiership targets 200 talented male and female athletes from throughout New Zealand, with players allocated selection in the teams through a retained players list, regionality and by way of the “National Draft” as required.
The Premiership is the perfect opportunity for a higher level competition providing an extension to the traditional regional league seasons spanning between August to December each year.
The seasons timing also provide the opportunities to utilise Australian based players within team selections. Players from 7 regions to participate in the competition including over 370 individual flights to Auckland and Christchurch throughout the season.
The Women’s Premiership takes place in conjunction with the current Men’s Premiership between February and April.
The female competition will provide the perfect environment for girls transitioning from the Youth Competition formats to senior football and is the next step in finalising the pathway for women to participate in AFL within New Zealand.
MEN’S PREMIERSHIP
The 2023 Premiership season saw the inclusion of the first ever Christchurch based matches at QE2 Park. 2024 saw a continuation of these fixtures and featured a bigger contingent from Wellington, as the premiership prepares to become a fully regionalised competition.
WOMEN’S PREMIERSHIP
The female competition will provide the perfect environment for girls transitioning from the Youth Programme formats to senior football and is the next step in finalising the pathway for women to participate in AFL within New Zealand. The Women’s Premiership continues to exapnd with the introduction of three new teams. The Central Shakers, Western Ravens returned in 2024 and were joined by a fully canterbury based Southern Stars side with each side expanding to full sized squads.
Saints Star Hamish Flanagan
RISING STAR AWARD
The AFL New Zealand Rising Star award was awarded weekly to a standout young player in the AFL New Zealand Premiership. Each week the award was allocated to those who show ability that favours the core components it takes to become an AFL Player. To be eligible to be nominated for the award, a player must be born in 2005 or younger.
Previous Rising Star Winners
• Will Warbrick
• Carlos Donell-Brown
• Misilifi Faimalo
• Josh Mackie
• Declan Crann
• Oliver Giamblanco
• Tane Kirton
TEAM OF THE WEEK
Each week throughout the Premiership season, AFL New Zealand announced the ‘Team of the week’ which featurde the 24 best players from the previous weekends round. The teams were selected by the coaches of each team and targeted stand out players who show the attributes of what it takes to be a successful player. The 6 best players from each team will make up the team of the week. At the culmination of the season, AFL New Zealand announced the Premiership Team of the year which consisted of the players who have featured in the team of the week category.
DEVELOPMENT PLAYERS
The AFL New Zealand Premiership will provide a number of talented players from the AFL New Zealand Academy the opportunity to participate in the Premiership as development players. The opportunity will be utilised to further develop and manage the environment for young players and their introduction into senior football. The preparation they receive will potentially see them drafted and playing in the 2024 AFLNZ Premiership as a full time participant.
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Those announced are all born in the year 2005 and are not guaranteed to play in the premiership or play every week. High Performance management will distribute development players to team’s week to week dependant on several factors including;
• The players stage of development
• The players physical preparedness and capability
• Approval from AFLNZ, the participants parents and the participant
Development Players will train with the Premiership group in their region along with their Academy commitments. Development opportunities on game day will be managed by AFL New Zealand and respective coaches this will include specific timing, rotation, opposition match ups and player review throughout the day.
PAST WINNERS
MEN’S WOMEN”S
2016 Western Crows
2017 Southern Saints
2018 Central Giants
2019 Western Crows Lions
2020 Southern Siants Bulldogs
2021 Central Giants Bulldogs
2023 Central Giants Central Shakers
2024 Central Giants Western Ravens
2024 Western Ravens finish the Premiership season unbeaten
The Central Giants complete 3-peat
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AFLNZ Regional Youth Programmes
AFL New Zealand Youth Programme provides new pathways to participate in AFL
The Youth Programme, established in 2015, is designed to support the development of participants who aspire to excel in AFL.
The programme aims to enhance the skills and fitness of the athletes in a fun and engaging environment. It offers a comprehensive training, game and development programme that covers the essential aspects of the AFL pathway.
In 2024, the Youth Programme operated in four locations; two in Auckland, and one each in Wellington and Christchurch. The Programme attracted partcipants from Secondary and Intermediate schools across the Northland, Auckland, Wellington and Canterbury regions and had an increase in female and Maori and Pacifika participants
The programme focuses on improving the athletes’ skills and fitness through a structured and progressive training, game and development programme. It prepares the participants for the transition from other sports and connects them to club football and lifelong involvement with the sport. AFL New Zealand has set a goal to increase the number of participants in all age groups and regions where the programme is delivered.
The participants are selected from various sources, such as:
• Secondary School Programmes
• Intermediate Programmes
• Talent Identification Personnel
• Current Players
... an increase in female and Maori and Pasifika participants
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Alastair Maisey Community and Communications Manager
Funding Support
AFL New Zealand would like to acknowledge our funding partners involvement in supporting our Programmes.
AFL New Zealand sincerely thanks our valued funding partners for their unwavering support throughout the year. Their involvement has been essential to the success of our programmes, enabling AFL New Zealand to continue providing opportunities for youth and adults across the community to engage with the sport. With multiple programme locations across New Zealand, including youth divisions for both boys and girls, as well as competitions for men and women, our partners’ financial support has been crucial in meeting the ongoing resource and training demands necessary for the sustainable growth of AFL at the grassroots level.
The AFL New Zealand Youth Programme, made possible through the generous support of our funding partners, provides new players with an inclusive and enjoyable introduction to AFL. With a strong focus on skill development, fitness,
and personal growth, the programme offers participants clear pathways for progression, including potential selection into the AFL New Zealand Academy and opportunities for national representation.
The impact of our funding partners’ contributions was clearly demonstrated at the 2024 Pacific Cup, which featured a significant number of players who had developed through programmes made possible by this vital support.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our funders for their invaluable contributions throughout 2024. Their commitment has played a pivotal role in enriching the AFL landscape in New Zealand, ensuring continued opportunities for players at all levels.
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2024 AFLNZ Men’s Heritage Team
The twelth AFL New Zealand Men’s Heritage team has been selected for 2024, showing the depth of involvement New Zealanders have in AFL at the highest level
The 2024 Heritage team boasts an exciting mix of established AFL stars such as Max Gawn from the Melbourne Football Club, retiring Richmond Tigers star Dustin Martin, youthful talent and home grown New Zealand players.
To meet the criteria to be selected in the AFLNZ heritage team, each player must either have been born in New Zealand or have New Zealand parentage.
Mykelti Lefau scores his first goal in the AFL
The 2024 team consists of 12 players listed with AFL Clubs, and 3 VFL listed players
Max Gawn Captains the side again and Ben Rutten, defense coach at the Richmond Club has been named as the NZ heritage coach.
The team also features home grown talent, Misilifi Faimalo, a star studded product of the AFL New Zealand development pathway, who moved to the Sandringham Football Club in the VFL in 2024, after a two year stint with the Richmond VFL side. Misilifi also featured in the New Zealand Falcons squad who returned to the International stage at the
2024 Pacific Cup and is joined by fellow Falcons Carlos Donnell-Brown and Josh Mackie, two of the Falcons other top performers at the cup.
The development programmes run by AFL New Zealand have a vision of AFL as a New Zealand sport. At every level of the game, from teaching schoolchildren the fundamentals through the AFL KiwiKick programme, to high performance training for athletes looking for a pathway in sport, to regional leagues played around the country, AFL in New Zealand is on a roll. The introduction of the AFLNZ Youth Competition in 2015 was a major success in placing High School aged students on the pathway to AFL.
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Jake Patmore North Adelaide
Connor Ballenden Woodville-West Torrens
Dylan Clarke Port Melbourne
Oskar Baker Bulldogs Lucas Jellyman-Turner Broadbeach AFC
Archie Perkins Essendon
Toby Wooller Carlton
Louis Butler Bulldogs
Mykelti Lefau Richmond
Sam Weideman Melbourne
Mark Blicavs Geelong
Jordan Ridley Essendon
Rowan Marshall St Kilda
Max Gawn Melbourne
Dustin Martin Richmond Zac Fisher North Melbourne On Ballers
Misilifi Faimalo Sandringham FC Keighton Matofai-Forbes
Luke Jackson Melbourne
Sam Durdin Carlton
Ben Rutten
2024 AFLNZ Women’s Heritage Team
This is the fourth Women’s Heritage team to be announced, with the side continuing to grow as the AFLW grows
This season, injuries and retiring players has seen a few changes to the side, but acknowledges some of the incredible efforts from the New Zealand Kahu at the Pacific Cup
This season saw the continuation of the growth made in season 8 and after another big off season trade period, and with AFLW contracts extending to full year contracts, the growth and development in the Women’s game saw the league look completely different ladder, most notably with Hawthorn jumping from 14th in 2023 to 2nd in 2024
Unfortunately a number of major injuries have kept Ange Stannett, Indy Tahau, and Vaomua Laloifi on the sidelines in the 2024 AFLW season, but that has left the door open for Axel Oswald, Liv Waldron,
Jolyn Collins and Kate Turnbull to move into the side, after a series of strong performances for the Kahu in the Pacific Cup
To meet the criteria to be selected in the AFLNZ heritage team, each player must either have been born in New Zealand or have New Zealand parentage.
The 2024 team consists of 16 players currently playing in the AFLW competition for their respective clubs.
Youth development programmes implemented by AFL New Zealand continue to work towards a lifetime of involvement with the sport. Equal
importance is placed on both the starting point of teaching school children the fundamentals by way of the AFL KiwiKick programme, involvement in Regional Leagues throughout New Zealand all the way through to high performance training for athletes seeking higher honours with AFL.
Jesse Wardlaw was in strong form for St Kilda in 2024
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Liv Waldron NZ Kahu
Axel Oswald NZ Kahu
Lucy Single Gold Coast
Poppy Kelly Richmond
Stevie-Lee Thompson Adelaide
Celine Moody Carlton
Tahlia Randall North Melbourne
Makaela Tuhakaraina Freemantle
Dee Heslop Brisbane
Najwa Allen Adelaide
Kristy Stratton Hawthorn
Breann Moody Carlton
Jasmine Garner North Melbourne
Abbie Dowrick Port Adelaide On Ballers
Lauren Pearce Melbourne Jolyn Collins NZ Kahu
Kate Turnbull NZ Kahu Serena Gibbs Freemantle Interchange
Jesse Wardlaw St Kilda
Brooke Walker Essendon
2024 Scores and Results
Senior Regional Leagues
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Josh Love was the Premiership Best and Fairest in his first
Financial Statements of AFL New Zealand Inc.
As at 31 October 2024
Statement of Financial Position
Current Liabilities
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Current Liability
*These
*These Statements should be read in conjunction with the notes to the Financial Statements and Audit Report.
Society Directory as at 31 October 2024
Registered Office: Sports House, Stadium Drive, North Harbour Stadium, Albany. Society Number: 217967 Auditors: JSA Audit Limited Bankers: Westpac Banking Corporation
Board
Michael Nettlefold (Elected 25 March 2015) (Re-Elected 19 March 2016) (Re-Elected 16 March 2019) (Re-Elected 15 March 2022)
Andrew McKenzie (Elected 15 March 2015) (Re-Elected 17 March 2018) (Re-Elected 14 March 2021) (Re-elected 12 March 2024)
Bernard Saundry (Chairman) (Appointed 26 February 2018) (Re-Appointed 20 October 2022)
Liza McNally (Appointed 20 September 2018) (Re-Appointed 18 October 2023)
Chris Mundell (Elected 14 March 2023)
Chris Brooks (Elected 27 October 2020)
Peter Summers (Appointed 28 October 2021)
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Notes to the Financial Statements
NOTE 1 STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES
AFL NEW ZEALAND INCORPORATED is an Incorporated Society established under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908.
The Financial Statements of AFL New Zealand Incorporated have been prepared in accordance with the stated accounting policies and are therefore considered to be special purpose. These Special purpose financial statements are used by management and the board in fulfilling their reporting requirements to the members of AFL New Zealand Incorporated and therefore may not be fit for another purpose.
Measurement Base
The accounting principles recognised as appropriate for the measurement and reporting of earnings and financial position on an historical cost basis have been used in the preparation of these Special purpose financial statements.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Historical cost includes expenditure directly attributable to the acquisition of assets and includes the cost of replacements that are eligible for capitalisation when these are incurred. Depreciation rates as follows:
• Jumpers/Shorts/Socks: 30% DV
• Plant and Equipment: 10-50% DV
• Computers and Software 50% DV
Jumpers/Shorts/Socks are used for training and coaching purpose by AFLNZ Staff.
Inventory
Inventory has been stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
The entity is registered for GST. All amounts are stated exclusive of goods and services tax (GST) except for accounts payable and accounts receivable which are stated inclusive of GST.
Income Tax
AFL New Zealand Incorporated is wholly exempt from New Zealand income tax having fully complied with all statutory conditions for these exemptions.
Receivables
Receivables are stated at expected realisable value. Bad debts are written off during the period in which they are identified.
Liabilities
Liabilities are stated at the estimated amounts payable and include all obligations that can be reliably estimated. Current liabilities include the amounts payable within twelve months of these special purpose financial statements.
Changes in Accounting Policies
There have been no changes in accounting policies during the year.
NOTE 2 LEASE COMMITMENTS
The Club has no non-cancellable operating lease commitments. (2023 – Nil).
NOTE
3 INCOME
Income shown in the Statement of Financial Performance comprises the amounts received and receivable for services supplied to customers in the ordinary course of business, except for contributions received from players with respect to their attendance at international tournaments which are recognised on cash receipt basis.
NOTE 4 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
There were no Contingent Liabilities as at 31 October 2024 (2023– Nil).
NOTE 5 CAPITAL COMMITMENTS
There were no outstanding Capital Commitments as at 31 October 2024 (2023– Nil).
NOTE 6 AFL AGREEMENT
The Society’s most significant source of income is the AFL Grant. Under its current format the AFL Agreement is renewed annually and any significant adverse change in the grant would affect the financial viability of the Society.
NOTE 7 GRANTS AND DONATIONS WITH CONDITIONS
The Prepayments Received $212,112 (2023 - $32,523) represent the proportion of Grants received during the financial year which relate to after 31 October 2024. Funding grants that are subject to use or return conditions are recognised as income when the conditions have been met.
NOTE 8 LOAN
This loan is payable to the Inland Revenue Department, unsecured and at an interest rate of 3% per annum (interest starts April 2024 and the final repayment date is 30 April 2027).
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NOTE 9 EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE DATE
The Society is not aware of any other matter or circumstances that has or may significantly affect their operations.
NOTE 10 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
As the AFL has capacity to appoint the majority of Directors it is deemed to be a related party. Duration the year ended 31 October 2024, AFL NZ Incorporated received a grant from the AFL of $249,549 (2023: $252,161).
NOTE 11 Going Concern
The Society will be winding up in the 2025 financial year and a new entity will be created in New Zealand that will report directly to the AFL in Australia. This process will begin after 25 March 2025. Consequently, the financial statements are prepared on a basis other than going concern.
NOTE 12 BUSINESS MASTER CARD
The AFL New Zealand has a Limit of $20,000 (2023: $20,000) on their Business MasterCard facility as at year end.
Independent Auditor’s Report
Qualified Opinion
We have audited the special purpose financial statements of AFL New Zealand Incorporated (the Society) on pages 2 to 8, which comprise the statement of financial position as at 31 October 2024 and the statement of financial performance and statement of movement in equity for the year then ended, and notes to the special purpose financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies.
In our opinion, except for the possible effects of the matter described in the Basis for Qualified Opinion section of our report, the accompanying financial statements of the Society for the year ended 31 October 2024 are prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with the stated accounting policies. Basis for Qualified Opinion
We were unable to satisfy ourselves by alternative means concerning the stock quantities held at 31 October 2024 totalling $95,747, which is represented as stock on hand balance in the statement of financial position, by using other audit procedures. Consequently, we were unable to determine whether any adjustments to this amount was necessary. Prior year stock on hand balance was not qualified.
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (New Zealand) (ISAs (NZ)). Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Special Purpose Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Society in accordance with Professional and Ethical Standard 1 International Code of Ethics for Assurance Practitioners (including International Independence Standards) (New Zealand) issued by the New Zealand Auditing and Assurance Standards Board, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
An associated company, JSA Limited, which has commonality of one of the shareholders, has assisted with the compilation of the Society’s financial statements. Other than this, we as auditors have no relationship with, or interests in, AFL New Zealand Incorporated.
Emphasis of Matter – Basis of Accounting and Restriction on Distribution
We draw attention to Note 1 to the special purpose financial statements, which describes the basis of accounting. The special purpose financial statements are prepared in accordance with
the stated accounting policies and are intended for use by the members of AFL New Zealand Incorporated. As a result, the special purpose financial statements may not be suitable for another purpose. Our report is intended solely for the members of the Society, as a body and should not be distributed to other parties. Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter.
Emphasis of Matter - Going Concern
We draw attention to note 11 to the financial statements which indicates that the Society will be winding up in the 2025 financial year and a new entity will be created in New Zealand that will report directly to the AFL in Australia. Accordingly, the financial statements have been prepared on a basis other than going concern as described in Note 11. Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter.
The Board of Directors’ Responsibilities for the Special Purpose Financial Statements
The Board of Directors are responsible on behalf of the Society for the preparation of the special purpose financial statements in accordance with the accounting policies as disclosed in special purpose financial statements and for such internal control as the Board of Directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of special purpose financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. The Board of Directors are also responsible for determining that the special purpose reporting framework, is acceptable in the Society’s circumstances.
In preparing the special purpose financial statements, the Board of Directors are responsible for assessing the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Directors either intend to liquidate the Society or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Special Purpose Financial Statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the special purpose financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (NZ) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the
aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the decisions of users taken on the basis of these special purpose financial statements. As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs (NZ), we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
We also:
• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the special purpose financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.
• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Society’s internal control.
• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by management.
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• Conclude on the appropriateness of the use of the going concern basis of accounting by those charged with governance and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the special purpose financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Society to cease to continue as a going concern.
We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.
08 February 2024
JSA Audit LTD
Parnell Auckland
