For sports clubs in the Matamata-Piako District to survive it is important that they consider if the methods of the past are in fact the ways of the future. Clubs often have to bear the burden of spiralling maintenance costs for often under-utilised facilities and societal changes such as more punitive drink-driving laws have reduced traditional revenue gatherers such as the club bar. It is important that they consider their futures before clubs limit their options for continued existence; - Should they merge with another club or clubs? - Can they pool resources with other clubs, schools or active leisure providers to form multi-sports clubs or leisure centres? - Can clubs continue to rely on volunteers for their continued existence?A survey taken in the Matamata-Piako District showed that although many sports clubs were having difficulty recruiting volunteers to run their organizations, few were prepared to consider amalgamation with another club/clubs in the District.The traditional methods of funding individual sports clubs are under scrutiny and there is a preference for funding through one effective sports organization. It is recommended that clubs need to evaluate themselves, using an organization such as Sport Waikato, and determine their future viability. [Show full abstract]

The New Zealand Kellogg Rural Leaders Programme develops emerging agribusiness leaders to help shape the future of New Zealand agribusiness and rural affairs. Lincoln University has been involved with this leaders programme since 1979 when it was launched with a grant from the Kellogg Foundation, USA.