Paralympic Leader Duane Kale Appointed New Chair of Sport NZ and HPSNZ

Mitchell described Kale as an “outstanding champion in Paralympic sport and governance,” highlighting his long-standing contribution to both national and international sporting organisations.

Sport and Recreation Minister Mark Mitchell has announced the appointment of Duane Kale ONZM as the new Chair of Sport and Recreation New Zealand (Sport NZ), marking a significant leadership shift within the country’s sport and high-performance system.

Mitchell described Kale as an “outstanding champion in Paralympic sport and governance,” highlighting his long-standing contribution to both national and international sporting organisations. Kale has served as Deputy Chair of the Sport NZ Board and High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ) since 2023, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Paralympic sport globally.

Kale has been deeply involved in sports governance for more than a decade, serving on the Board of Paralympics New Zealand and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) since 2013. His tenure as IPC Vice President from 2017–2025 marked him as a central decision-maker in shaping Paralympic sport worldwide. This year, he was awarded the Paralympic Order, the highest honour bestowed by the IPC, recognising exceptional service and lasting impact on the Paralympic Movement.

Mitchell said Kale’s leadership comes at a pivotal moment for New Zealand sport, as Sport NZ and HPSNZ prepare for future challenges, including rebuilding community participation levels, supporting elite athlete pathways, and strengthening wellbeing across the sector.

“Duane brings an exceptional blend of governance expertise, international experience, and lived sporting achievement,” Mitchell said. “I look forward to working with him to help support our communities to be active, healthy and connected.”

Acknowledgment of Outgoing Chair

Mitchell also acknowledged Raewyn Lovett ONZM, who has served Sport NZ since 2018 in multiple leadership roles—Board member, Deputy Chair (from 2021), and most recently Chair since July 2023. He thanked her for her stewardship through a period of transition and reform in the sports sector.

Biography and Background

Duane Kale is a decorated New Zealand Paralympian who won six medals at the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games, including four gold, cementing his legacy as one of the country’s most successful para-athletes. He later led New Zealand’s Paralympic teams as Chef de Mission at both the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Games.

Beyond competition, Kale has built a significant governance career across multiple boards and advisory groups, contributing to disability sport development, organisational reform, integrity frameworks, and international sport policy. Known for his strategic leadership and advocacy for athlete wellbeing, Kale is expected to bring a strong focus on transparency, performance, and community impact in his new role.