Staffing, Women’s Sport 2 min read

BNZ Kāhu Basketball Team Becomes the First All-Women-Owned Team in New Zealand

Written by MOS Editorial Team

Published on 24 September 2024

In a major milestone for women in sports, the BNZ Kāhu basketball team has become the first fully female-owned professional basketball team in New Zealand.

Competing in the Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa league, the team has been acquired by an influential group of five women who are determined to set a revolutionary standard in sports ownership. Jo Caird, Jody Cameron, Paula George, Rachel Howard, and Dani Marshall each bring unique strengths and diverse backgrounds to the group, ready to drive the team to new heights.

Jo Caird: Former New Zealand Junior Tennis representative, the first official photographer for the All Blacks, and co-author of Our GameMakers.

Jody Cameron: New Zealand basketball legend, Olympian, Commonwealth Games silver medalist, and current coach of BNZ Kāhu.

Paula “Georgie” George: World Cup-winning rugby captain who also represented Wales in netball.

Rachel Howard: Former Football Fern and Olympian, currently a brand-building executive at a leading global sports brand.

Dani Marshall: Founder of womenzsports, promoting women’s sports media in New Zealand, with a background in tech and digital.

“This purchase is about more than basketball — it’s about reshaping the narrative of women’s sports in New Zealand and globally,” said Jo Caird. “Now is the time to reimagine the possibilities for women’s sport in New Zealand. We’ve seen how differently female athletes perform on the court/field; now, let’s see what we can do as owners.”

The group is focused on creating an inclusive environment that empowers professional female athletes. Their priorities include fostering a competitive team culture, enhancing community engagement, and developing partnerships that elevate the BNZ Kāhu brand. They aim to create pathways for aspiring athletes, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to excel. This commitment not only aims to improve on-court performance but also to strengthen the team’s presence within the local community, reinforcing the importance of women’s sports in New Zealand.

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