Ako Wāhine

Whether you're taking your first steps into coaching or already supporting a team, Ako Wāhine provides a welcoming environment where women can learn, connect, grow and thrive together.

The programme is built around four key goals:

• Recruit more women into coaching through women-focused Small Blacks and Level 1 coaching courses.

• Retain women already coaching by providing ongoing learning opportunities, mentoring, support and strong coaching networks.

• Celebrate women in coaching by sharing their stories, recognising their contributions and inspiring the next generation of coaches.

• Collaborate with Provincial Unions to create more coach development opportunities and increase the number of women coaching rugby across Aotearoa.

At the heart of Ako Wāhine is a learning environment designed specifically for women. Workshops prioritise connection, whakawhanaungatanga, confidence and practical learning, with experienced facilitators, peer support and childminding available to make participation more accessible.

The 2026 Ako Wāhine programme includes the NZ Rugby Foundation of Rugby Coaching (Level 1) qualification, with an expanded range of learning experiences in development for 2027 onwards. Delivered through a blended approach of online learning and in-person workshops. 

Ako Wāhine is an ongoing coaching journey that connects women with continued development opportunities, a supportive coaching network and the confidence to keep growing throughout their coaching career.