It has been a busy start to the year for the Association. Thank you everyone for making the transition to the new team so seamless (so far!). I hope you found value in our first Board Town Hall at the start of the month – it was great to have so many of you join the call and hear directly from us about the future and what matters to you.
I thought I would take the time here to outline some of that conversation, and hopefully give a sense of what is to come this year and beyond.
The Future of New Zealand’s Pipe Band Community: Growth, Stability, and a Digital Evolution
As the Association embarks on 2025, we are prioritising stability, growth, and modernisation. With a refreshed leadership team and an ambitious agenda, we are poised to build on tradition while embracing new opportunities.
A Year of Transition and Financial Stability
One of the key challenges facing us is ensuring financial stability. While incredibly beneficial programmes to the Association, recent losses from both the Youth Band’s Canada trip and the Summer School have reinforced the need to diversify revenue streams. The Board is actively working on reducing financial risks while maintaining the core activities that make the association thrive. A major component of this effort is the restructuring of the Executive Officer role, with Allister Macgregor undertaking a review to enhance efficiency in the association’s back-office functions.
Strengthening Education and Membership
Education remains a cornerstone of our strategic focus. We recognise that a thriving membership is closely linked to strong educational programs. The 2025 Summer School was a significant success, drawing 125 attendees and showcasing an innovative curriculum under Geoff Hallberg and Courtney Williamson’s leadership.
A major initiative this year is the implementation of a new structure for the National Youth Pipe Band of New Zealand. Ensuring financial and administrative sustainability for this program is vital for nurturing the next generation of pipers and drummers. We plan to develop a centralised resource hub, offering best practices, funding opportunities, and recruitment materials to support local bands.
Expanding Digital Capabilities
In an increasingly digital world, we are investing in modernising our online presence and streamlining administrative processes. A digital-first strategy is being implemented to improve communication, accessibility, and efficiency. The Association is analysing its systems and exploring automation to better serve its members.
Promotions and membership growth are also central to the digital strategy. A three-year Digital and Promotions plan will expand RNZPBA’s reach, engaging potential members through online platforms and public awareness campaigns. Storytelling is key to strengthening the pipe band movement, and digital tools will play a crucial role in sharing the rich cultural heritage of piping and drumming with a wider audience.
Fostering Collaboration and Governance Updates
Communication and transparency are at the heart of RNZPBA’s vision for the future. Strengthening connections between regional centres and the national body will ensure the pipe band community remains united and well-supported. A mentorship program is being developed to encourage knowledge-sharing and problem-solving across regions, reinforcing a sense of community and collaboration.
Additionally, the association is working to update its constitution in accordance with the new Incorporated Societies Act 2022. This important legal update will ensure compliance and modernize governance structures, with plans to finalise the new constitution by 2026.
Looking Ahead
The RNZPBA’s 2025 plan demonstrates a commitment to honouring tradition while embracing innovation. By focusing on financial stability, education, digital transformation, and community engagement, the association is laying a strong foundation for the future of pipe bands in New Zealand. As the organization continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable pipe band culture for generations.
With major events such as the World Solo Drumming Oceania Championship and the New Zealand Pipe Band Championships on the horizon, 2025 is set to be an exciting year for the RNZPBA and its members. The path forward is clear: by strengthening our foundations and modernising its approach, we are ensuring that the movement thrives across New Zealand for years to come.
Liam Kernaghan
President, Royal New Zealand Pipe Bands’ Association
