Racing
League
Rugby
Football
Cricket
Golf
Olympics
Motorsport
Netball
Combat Sports
Basketball
Tennis
Other Sports
Sport Nation
'The federated model doesn't work': Simon Porter on why NZ Sport needs to evolve
Sport Nation •  June 10th, 2026 9:32 am
Photo: Anthony Au-Yeung/Photosport
The sports management landscape in New Zealand is changing rapidly, and few people have had a closer view of that evolution than Simon Porter.Â
After nearly two decades helping guide the careers of some of the country's biggest rugby stars through Halo Sport, Porter is now preparing to take over as Chief Executive of the New Zealand Cricket Players Association.
In this wide-ranging conversation with Sport Nation's Millsy & Guy, Porter lifts the lid on the world of athlete representation, revealing how agents identify talent, the growing battle to keep New Zealand's best young players from being lured overseas, and why NZ Rugby will eventually change its stance on overseas eligibility.
Porter explained why he believes New Zealand's traditional federated sporting model isn't fit for purpose, arguing NZR is trying to undertake an "impossible task" by simultaneously controlling the national team, professional game and community game, adding private investment in Super Rugby teams is "inevitable".
Porter also discusses the challenges awaiting him in his new role, from collective bargaining negotiations to the growing impact of franchise cricket and private ownership.
Listen to the full interview below:
