18. New Zealand

Despite its small size and population, New Zealand’s elite athletes perform very well in global competition – particularly when considered alongside countries of similar size and population. This was evident at the London 2012 Olympic Games, a competition in which Kiwis won six gold medals – an astounding achievement for a country of just 4.5 million people. There is a belief in New Zealand that success on the world stage is possible due to the structure of sport within the country. New Zealand’s participant sport infrastructure is well developed, and the popularity of sport amongst Kiwis of all ages is supported by recent data. Sport is primarily club based in New Zealand, but schools play a vital role in the delivery of sport for those below the age of 18. Recent trends in sport participation amongst Maori, Pacific and blossoming Asian populations are likely to change the perception of New Zealand as being a country focused just on rugby union, netball and cricket.