Bowls Canterbury (New Zealand)

To undertake a comprehensive operational review of Bowls Canterbury, providing an independent assessment of the organisation’s governance, management and operating environment. The review represented a strategic opportunity to optimise Bowls Canterbury’s functions and performance, ensuring the organisation is well positioned to foster a culture of high performance, attract and manage funding effectively and provide strong leadership for the growth, promotion and development of bowls in Canterbury.

• Situational analysis of operations, governance, leadership and performance.
• Review and assessment of planning and growth objectives.
• Financial Management review.
• Analysis of high performance and community programs.
• Stakeholder engagement.
• Development of strategic framework for the organisation.

Identification of key recommendations, supported by a prioritised implementation plan to ensure the organisation can progress the operational, financial, engagement and pathway improvements in a more coordinated way.

• Balancing the expectations of over 50 clubs, in varied size and structure.
• Meaningful stakeholder engagement highlighted the importance of transparent communication, stronger relationships with clubs and clear strategic priorities.
• Sustainable sport organisations require strong connections between strategy, staffing, financial management and service delivery to effectively support future growth and participation.
• The review highlighted the importance of robust strategic planning frameworks, including measurable outcomes, implementation planning and regular monitoring to support long-term success.

• A stronger, more strategically focussed organisation that is better positioned to support clubs, volunteers and participants across Canterbury.
• Improved governance and organisational planning will help ensure bowls remains viable and accessible for future generations.
• Enhanced stakeholder engagement and communication processes will support stronger relationships between Bowls Canterbury, clubs and the wider bowls community.
• A coordinated implementation plan provides a clear roadmap for strengthening community participation, supporting club sustainability and growing the sport throughout the region.