Touch NZ is committed to developing elite athletes, coaches, referees, and support staff through a world-class high-performance programme. Our programmes are strategically designed to identify, recruit, train, and support talent, driving excellence across Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed divisions. 

World-Class Touch Blacks 

At the pinnacle of our pathway are the Touch Blacks - New Zealand’s elite national teams, consistently performing at the highest global level. The Touch Blacks have a proud history of World Cup performances, with multiple podium finishes. 

These athletes exemplify world-class skill, fitness, and teamwork, embodying the passion, inclusivity, and spirit of our sport.

Pathway to Excellence 

• Emerging Person Programme (EPP): Cultivates the next generation of athletes and nurtures community engagement. 

• Youth Programme: Introduces players to international competition, including the Asia-Pacific Youth Touch Cup and Youth Trans-Tasman Series. 

• Touch Blacks Programme: Prepares elite athletes, coaches and referees to compete globally in Trans-Tasman Series, Asia-Pacific Cup, and Touch World Cups. 

• Master’s Programme: Offers ongoing international competition opportunities across multiple age grades, from 30+ Women’s to Over 55 Men’s. 

• Referee Programme: Develops officials to elite global standards, ensuring the highest quality officiating across all competitions. 

Across all levels, Touch NZ accelerates development through evidence-based training, tailored strength and conditioning programs, and performance monitoring - all driving toward one goal: keeping the Touch Blacks at the top of the world while celebrating touch.