Recreation Co-ordinator
Recreation co-ordinators plan and run community leisure, before and after school and sport programmes at venues such as recreation centres, parks, clubs and schools.
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Pay per yearGraduate |
Job opportunitiesAverage |
What you'll do
Recreation co-ordinators may do some or all of the following:
- Plan and co-ordinate recreation programmes and events, social sports, competitions, and before-school, after-school and school holiday programmes
- Work with the community to design and develop recreation projects
- Prepare budgets and write reports and proposals
- Hire, train and supervise volunteers and staff
- Advise councils and commissions on recreation planning and policies
- Advise and assist community groups to develop recreation programmes and events
Entry requirements
There are no specific requirements to become a recreation co-ordinator. However, a certificate or diploma in leisure studies, physical education, sports administration or community recreation may be useful. Many local governments prefer recreation coordinators to have a Bachelor's degree.
Most employers prefer you to have a driver's licence and First Aid Certificate.
For more information about your study options see: Areas of specialisation: Sport and Recreation
Personal requirements
Recreation co-ordinators need to be:
- Enthusiastic and patient
- Mature and responsible
- Good communicators
- Good leaders and able to motivate others
- Able to get on with a wide range of people
- Well organised, with planning and project management skills
- Able to work well under pressure to meet deadline.
What are the chances of getting a job?
Out of school programmes offer the best chance of securing a recreation co-ordinator job. These roles are in high demand as many working parents and caregivers rely on after-school and holiday programmes to look after their children.
Growing demand for recreation coordinators in recreation centres
Demand for sport and recreation co-ordinators at recreation centres is expected to grow as Sport New Zealand aims to boost public participation rates in sport and recreation activities. The best way to become a recreation co-ordinator in a recreation centre is to contact employers directly or use volunteer networks.
Types of employers varied
Recreation co-ordinators may work for a variety of employers, including:
- Out of school care and recreation providers
- Iwi and local authorities, such as city and district councils
- Schools and universities
- Sport groups, clubs, and recreation centres
- Government agencies such as Sport New Zealand
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This information is a guide only. Last updated 26 March 2025.