Grassroots sport across New Zealand is facing mounting pressure, with fewer volunteers taking on increasingly heavy coaching workloads, new research shows.

Figures released as part of a new Bunnings initiative reveal volunteer numbers in community sports clubs have dropped 28% since 2018, leaving remaining coaches dedicating more than 12 hours a week to keep teams running.

The research – a Honoco nationwide survey conducted in June 2026, commissioned by Bunnings – highlights the growing strain on volunteer coaches, who are juggling early-morning trainings, weekend fixtures and administrative duties to sustain grassroots sport.

In response, Bunnings has launched a nationwide programme, Coaching Legends, aimed at recognising and supporting the estimated 265,600 volunteer coaches across New Zealand.

The initiative is backed by high-profile athletes including Shaun Johnson, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, Amelia Kerr and Brook Ruscoe, all of whom credit volunteer coaches with shaping their sporting careers.

Woodman-Wickliffe said coaches play a key role far beyond the field.

“For so many of us, volunteer coaches are the people who spark that first love of the game – guiding you, challenging you, and giving you the confidence to keep going.”

Sport New Zealand has also thrown its support behind the programme, saying volunteer coaches are vital to youth development and community wellbeing.

Sport NZ sport development lead – coaching, Andy Rogers, said volunteers played a crucial role in helping young people build life skills and stay engaged in sport.

“Every day, volunteer coaches give their time to make a difference in the lives of young people. At Sport NZ, we see firsthand the vital role they play in supporting participation and overall wellbeing.”

Bunnings New Zealand general manager Melissa Haines said the initiative aimed to acknowledge those contributions and encourage more people to step forward.

“We’re proud to be backing these legends who are running training sessions, organising drills and making sure everyone feels welcome and included.”

From today, New Zealanders can nominate volunteer coaches for recognition, with weekly and monthly prizes on offer, including coaching equipment, development opportunities and funding for clubs.

Five finalists will also be selected to attend the ISPS Handa Halberg Awards in February, where one will be named Coaching Legend of the Year and receive $25,000 worth of support for their club.

The programme opens for nominations on June 22.