Sport Bay of Plenty Chief Executive announces resignation

Sport Bay of Plenty has announced that Chief Executive Heidi Lichtwark will step down at the end of March 2027, ending 24 years of service to the organisation, including 13 years as Chief Executive.

Ms Lichtwark has made the personal decision to relocate to another region and begin a new chapter. Board Chair Jeremy Mihaka-Dyer said the extended notice period provides certainty and allows the Board to undertake a thorough recruitment and induction process.

“Sport Bay of Plenty remains in a strong position, with a clear strategic direction, an experienced and committed Board, and a capable team that will continue delivering for partners and communities throughout the transition.

“As a clear sign of the care and affection for the organisation and its work, Heidi has provided the Board with a transition plan and extended notice period that allows us to take the necessary time to recruit and induct a suitable replacement.”

Ms Lichtwark joined Sport Bay of Plenty in 2003 and has served the organisation and its communities for 24 years. During 13 years as Chief Executive, she has guided Sport Bay of Plenty through significant change in how the region’s sector understands and supports play, active recreation, sport, physical activity and wellbeing.

Her partnerships with BayTrust, Sport New Zealand, councils, health and education agencies, regional sports organisations, clubs, funders and community groups have helped align regional effort, strengthen capability and create more equitable opportunities for people across the Bay of Plenty to be active.

“A hallmark of Heidi’s leadership has been her ability to build trusted relationships and bring organisations together around a shared purpose,” said Mr Mihaka-Dyer.

“She will leave a legacy of leadership across the sport, recreation and play sector. Her collaborative, relational style and care for our people and stakeholders has driven the organisation to an enviable position in the sector both in terms of thought leadership and outcomes.”

Under Ms Lichtwark’s leadership, Sport Bay of Plenty has strengthened its focus on evidence, equity and long-term impact while remaining closely connected to local communities. She has fostered a strong organisational culture, invested in the development of staff and championed collaboration across traditional sector boundaries. By connecting local insight with regional and national priorities, she has strengthened Sport Bay of Plenty’s ability to advocate for the region and help shape decisions and investment that support more people to be active.

Reflecting on her time with Sport Bay of Plenty, Ms Lichtwark said she felt proud of what had been achieved and deeply grateful to everyone who had been part of the journey, especially the organisation’s team, stakeholders, partners and communities.

“I’ve always believed that being active can make a real difference in people’s lives. What means the most to me is seeing what we have been able to make possible by working together.”

She said the relationships built over many years had been central to that work, with BayTrust among those whose long-standing support had made a significant difference.

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work alongside so many committed people. I’m genuinely thankful for the trust, support and friendship our stakeholders and partners have shown me and Sport Bay of Plenty over the years. Those relationships are strong, and I know they will continue to support the organisation and its work well into the future.”

The Board will oversee the recruitment and induction of Sport Bay of Plenty’s next Chief Executive and will work closely with Ms Lichtwark and the senior leadership team to ensure continuity throughout the transition. The organisation will remain focused on its commitments to partners and communities, and stakeholders will be kept informed as the process progresses.

“We wish Heidi well for her future and offer our heartfelt thanks for the way she has led and positioned this organisation for the future.”