An independent review into the sport of gymnastics in New Zealand was commissioned following serious and distressing allegations of abuse within the sport. This was including but not limited to the culture and behaviours that are alleged to have occurred or are continuing to occur within the gymnastics community. The review was lead by David Howman who had two Advisors to assist him in the review: Rachel Vickery, a former International gymnast and a qualified Physiotherapist, now a Human Behaviour and High-Performance Coach; and Dr Lesley Nicol, former Silver Ferns captain, a qualified Physiotherapist and now a Sport and Exercise Physician.

The review has now been completed and published. Please see the links below to access the full report and our Statement of Commitment to enact the recommendations received as a result of the review.

 – The full report
 – Statement of Commitment

The ICM and Safe Sport mechanisms below are still available for anyone wanting to submit a complaint or concern.

See also the review website for more information.

Should you have a complaint or concern that you wish to have confidentially and independently addressed, then you can go through the Sport NZ’s Independent Complaint Mechanism to submit a complaint via email or dial 0800 776 788 for a confidential call. This mechanism remains available until the end of May for the gymnastics community, as it has been through the initial review process.

Please be aware that in activating the ICM function above this information will only be provided to the ICM and not to Gymnastics NZ or Sport NZ directly. Information will only be shared by the ICM team with your consent.

From June, the Independent Complaints Mechanism will not be receiving any new matters because of the newly stood up Sport and Recreation Complaints and Mediation Service, operated independently by Immediation New Zealand for the whole sport and recreation sector. The gymnastics community will be welcome to use this service, which is also free of charge. Details will be posted here before the switch-over date.

See also the ICM Terms of Reference.

Gymnastics NZ is committed to ensuring that our sport is providing positive experiences, for all involved. If anyone has something they think we need to know in the context of athlete well-being, then please get in touch with us via  SafeSport@gymnasticsnz.com.

Please be aware that by using this email address, you are consenting to this email also being directed to the Independent Complaints Mechanism, where it will be assessed and the right process identified to address your concern.

Based in Auckland, Gymnastics NZ is the national body responsible for the development, promotion, governance and leadership of gymnastics throughout New Zealand. Gymnastics includes both men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, aerobics and trampoline.

Gymnastics encompasses both Mens (MAG) and Womens (WAG) artistic gymnastics, Rhythmic (RG) gymnastics, Aerobics (AER) and Trampoline (TRA). We believe that we are growing great New Zealanders through gymnastics.

To get involved with gymnastics in New Zealand, click here to find your local club.