Squash has a long history in New Zealand, with the country punching well above its weight at world level. Community clubs face ongoing challenges with aging courts and facilities, and grant funding is essential for court maintenance, equipment, and junior development. This guide covers the key funding sources for squash organisations in New Zealand.
Squash New Zealand (SNZ) is the national governing body and receives Sport NZ investment.
Key programmes:
- Junior squash: Development pathways from introductory to national competition
- Club development: Resources and guidance for member clubs
- Women's squash: Investment in women's participation and pathways
- Coaching development: Coach accreditation and education programmes
- High performance: Support for elite players and national teams
Access: SNZ investment flows through regional squash associations (e.g., Auckland Squash, Canterbury Squash). Contact your regional association for available funding and support.
Sport NZ funds Squash New Zealand and community sport through regional sport trusts.
Community access:
- Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa Fund: Community-led physical activity — squash clubs running accessible programmes can apply
- Regional sport trusts may support squash through community sport development
Gaming trusts are an important and accessible funding source for squash clubs.
Key trusts:
- New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT)
- The Lion Foundation
- Pub Charity
- Pelorus Trust
- Regional gaming trusts
What gaming trusts fund for squash:
- Racquets and balls
- Court equipment (glasses, tins, court marking)
- Junior development programmes
- Competition entry fees and travel
- Clubhouse maintenance contributions
- Lighting upgrades for courts
- Court maintenance (flooring, walls, glass)
The Lottery Grants Board funds sport facilities and equipment.
For squash:
- Court resurfacing and renovation
- Facility improvements (glass back wall replacement, court flooring)
- Equipment grants
- Programme development
Many New Zealand squash clubs have aging courts that require significant investment. Court projects typically involve:
- Lottery Grants Board: Major facility grants
- Local council: Support for community sport facilities
- Gaming trusts: Contributions to court renovation projects
- Squash New Zealand: Technical guidance and possible co-investment
- Club fundraising: Members and local business support
Glass back wall replacement, court resurfacing, and lighting upgrades are the most common capital needs.
Junior squash programmes are a priority for funders:
- SNZ Junior Programme: Development investment through clubs
- Gaming trusts: Junior programme grants
- Sport NZ / Tū Manawa: Community youth physical activity
- Community trusts: Youth sport development
Many squash clubs run school holiday clinics and after-school programmes that attract gaming trust and community trust support.
New Zealand's regional sport trusts may support squash through:
- Community sport activation programmes
- Capability development for clubs
- School partnership facilitation
Squash clubs that partner with local schools to introduce the sport to young players are well-positioned for funding. Schools near squash clubs can:
- Bring classes for introductory sessions
- Use club courts for school sport programmes
- Participate in inter-school squash competitions
This school-club partnership model is attractive to Sport NZ and regional sport trusts.
Strong squash grant applications demonstrate:
- Junior development: Youth programmes are a consistent funder priority
- Community access: Affordable membership, open to all
- Women's squash: Funders prioritise gender equity
- Court condition: Evidence that courts are well-maintained and safe
- Specific use of funds: Detailed justification for equipment or facility costs
- Club governance: Sound financial management, active membership, stable leadership
- Track record: Previous grant management and community impact
Tahua's grants management platform helps sport organisations track grant applications, manage reporting deadlines, and build the data that funders expect.