REFEREE DEVELOPMENT LEAD
Contract: Part-time (0.2 FTE)
Location: North Otago
Reports to: Competitions and Game Development Mananger
Start Date: 12 January 2026
Role Purpose:
NORFU is seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Referee Education & Development Officer to lead the recruitment, development, education, and management of referees across North Otago. This role supports safe, inclusive, and high-quality rugby experiences for players, coaches, officials, and the community.
Key Responsibilities:
Referee Development & Education: Recruit, mentor, and retain referees; deliver training and workshops; lead education initiatives on Laws of the Game and referee pathways; promote NZR safety and officiating standards.
Match Official Management & Appointments: Coordinate appointments for competitions, tournaments, and representative fixtures; maintain records; identify talent for advancement pathways.
Judicial & Administrative Support: Assist with judicial/disciplinary processes; support planning, budgeting, and programme design; represent NORFU at regional and national rugby forums.
Skills & Attributes:
Strong knowledge of rugby laws and referee practices.
Experience in referee mentoring, coaching, or education.
Excellent communication, presentation, and facilitation skills.
Strong organisation, coordination, and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to engage positively with volunteers, clubs, schools, and community.
Passion for sustainable sport pathways and community development.
Preferred Experience:
Relevant tertiary qualification.
Minimum five years’ refereeing experience.
Experience delivering training or education programmes.
Experience with competitions administration, judicial processes, or game management systems.
Additional Requirements:
Some evening and weekend work may be required.
Full New Zealand driver licence preferred.
Police Vetting may be required.
Why Join Us: This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of refereeing in North Otago. You will build capability, foster community engagement, and contribute to a sustainable and inclusive rugby environment.
How to Apply: Submit your CV and cover letter outlining your experience, skills, and vision for referee development to recruitment@norfu.nz
Applications close: Wednesday 10 December 2025. For a copy of the position description, click here. Don’t wait until the closing date to apply, as we will be reviewing applications as we go.
Independent Directors
North Otago Rugby Football Union
North Otago Rugby Football Union (NORFU) is seeking two experienced independent directors to join its Board for a two-year term, following the adoption of a new constitution and refreshed governance model.
These appointments form part of NORFU’s commitment to a skills-based, balanced Board, strengthening governance capability and supporting the effective delivery of NORFU’s long-term strategy as the organisation enters its next phase.
The Role
We are seeking individuals who bring:
Strong governance experience and strategic judgement
The ability to act independently and in the best interests of rugby across North Otago
The capability to contribute constructively to a Board operating under a skills-matrix framework
Desirable Experience
Experience or expertise in one or more of the following areas is particularly desirable:
Legal
Finance, audit, or risk
Sport, community, or not-for-profit governance
Cultural capability, including Māori and Pacific engagement, and experience working with diverse communities
Accreditation through recognised New Zealand governance programmes or the Institute of Directors is an advantage.
Appointment Process
Appointments will be made through a Board-approved appointment panel and interview process, with interviews expected to be held during the week commencing 2 February 2026.
Our Commitment
NORFU is committed to inclusive, high-performing governance and strongly encourages applications from individuals who bring diverse perspectives, including Māori, Pacific peoples, women, and others who reflect the communities that sustain rugby in North Otago.
Applications close: 5.00pm, Thursday 29 January 2026
Enquiries: Chief Executive (process enquiries) to sene@norfu.nz