Canoe Racing New Zealand is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Emmett as our new National Pathway Lead, commencing today, 1 September 2026.
Chris brings extensive experience in sport system leadership, pathway development and stakeholder engagement. Most recently, he has held senior leadership responsibilities with Surf Life Saving New Zealand, where he led national programmes, supported club capability and contributed to long-term organisational strategy.
Over the past several years, our sport has continued to build momentum both on and off the water. Alongside unprecedented international success, we have invested in strengthening the foundations of canoe racing in New Zealand through club support, coach development, athlete pathways and community growth. The appointment of Chris as National Pathway Lead is an important next step in that journey.
Many within our paddling community will already know Chris through his involvement as a paddler, coach, selector and club leader. He combines a deep understanding of community sport with proven experience building systems that support participation, development and performance.
Following a highly competitive recruitment process, Chris stood out for his systems thinking, practical leadership experience and commitment to developing people and environments where athletes, coaches and clubs can thrive. He demonstrated a clear understanding of how strong clubs, quality coaching and effective athlete development pathways contribute to long-term success.
Chris will be primarily based at the Canoe Racing New Zealand Centre at Lake Karapiro, while working closely with clubs, coaches, volunteers and athletes across the country. The CRNZ Centre will continue to serve as the anchor location for our development system, creating stronger connections between community participation, athlete development and high performance, and helping ensure New Zealand continues to develop the athletes, coaches and champions of the future.
“Chris brings a rare combination of strategic thinking, practical delivery experience and a genuine passion for developing people.” said CRNZ Chief Executive Graham Oberlin-Brown. “He understands the importance of strong clubs, quality coaching and positive athlete environments, and will play a key role in helping us build on the momentum our sport has generated in recent years. We’re excited about what his appointment means for the future of canoe racing in New Zealand.”
CRNZ High Performance Director Tristan Collins agrees. “Chris has a proven track record of bringing people together around a shared vision and turning strategy into action. He understands the importance of connecting clubs, coaches, athletes and performance programmes, and we’re excited to have him join the team as we continue to strengthen our development pathways across New Zealand.”
Congratulations to Chris on this appointment.
