New research shows that artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday administration for New Zealand community sports clubs. The 2026 National Sport Club Survey found that half of responding clubs already use AI tools, including ChatGPT, Claude and Copilot, to help manage their organisations.
The findings highlight an opportunity to reduce the administrative burden on volunteers, particularly in communications, funding applications and policy development. However, AI adoption is largely informal, with most clubs relying on individual initiative rather than agreed organisational policies. The survey also highlights ongoing financial pressures and volunteer shortages.
Key facts
- More than 750 club representatives participated, covering 66 sports and all 16 New Zealand regions.
- 50% of responding clubs reported using AI.
- 77% of AI-using clubs said adoption was largely driven by individuals rather than centrally managed.
- 54% believed AI could reduce administrative workloads.
- 51% identified opportunities to improve communications.
- 44% saw potential benefits for grant applications, while 42% identified policy development.
Our take
This is an encouraging example of AI reaching organisations that would not traditionally have dedicated technology teams. Community sports clubs operate with limited budgets and depend heavily on volunteers, making practical time-saving tools particularly valuable.
The governance gap is equally important. Even small organisations handle personal information about members, volunteers and children. National sporting bodies could help by providing simple AI policies, approved use cases and guidance on protecting information.
The same approach would benefit thousands of New Zealand charities, community organisations and small businesses.
Sources
- New Zealand Amateur Sport Association: AI Offers Aid to Ailing Community Sport Volunteers
- National Sport Club Survey: Official survey website
