HE PITO MATA
Community Umpire Programme
“From this seed, more will grow”
Are you ready to take the next step in umpiring?
The NZC “He Pito Mata” Community Umpire Programme is designed for new club umpires, players who umpire their own games, parents who are interested in upskilling in umpiring and youth cricketers who want to build confidence, strengthen their knowledge and make a positive impact on the game.
Through online sessions, regional development opportunities and expert support, participants will gain the tools to umpire with greater clarity, consistency and confidence — while helping players, coaches and teams enjoy a better cricket experience.
The programme combines interactive virtual sessions with regional 1-day residentials in major centres around the country. These residentials will focus on the interpretation of the Laws of Cricket and practical umpiring techniques. Community coaches will also be invited to attend the residentials, helping them better understand umpiring and take key learnings back to their teams.
Who should join? Nominations are open to each region for club umpires who would benefit from further development, as well as player umpires, parents and youth players interested in upskilling and exploring umpiring.
What’s involved? Participants will commit to 8 x 1.5-hour online sessions during the season, attend a 1-day regional residential, and complete the online MCC Basic and Intermediate Laws of Cricket e-learning certifications with a minimum 90% pass mark for each.
Programme highlights:
Nominations and the online registration form open on Thursday 6 August 2026 and closes on Thursday 20 August 2026.
The programme runs for 8 months, from September to April.
Participants will develop practical skills across key umpiring areas including:
Preparation
Communication & relationships
Non-verbal communication & teamwork
Player & match management
Dealing with errors
Self-assessments & observation feedback
If this interests you, join the NZC He Pito Mata Community Umpire Programme and be part of growing confident, capable community umpires across Aotearoa.
