Men's Basketball Coach

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University of Auckland seeks an experienced independent contractor to lead the Men’s Basketball 3x3 and 5x5 programmes, overseeing nationals May and September 2026, with the option to split duties. The ideal candidate has at least three years of high‑performance coaching, proven success in both formats, a strong athlete development mindset, and the ability to foster inclusive, accountable team cultures while collaborating with the team manager, strength and conditioning staff, and Sport. Remuneration from $50 per hour for about 4 hours per week, February to September 2026, with travel costs and Hiwa access covered. Apply online by 17 February 2026 with a brief cover letter and CV via Smart Recruiters; highlight leadership, wellbeing, trials, and a plan for selection. Questions to Jake McRae.

Company Description

Contract for Services - Independent Contractor
February 2026 until end of September 2026 with possibility of extension

Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s leading university and the country’s largest with over 40,000 students.

Job Description

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and energetic Men’s Basketball Coach to deliver a high-quality training and performance programme for the University of Auckland Men’s Basketball teams, supporting preparation for national tertiary competition in 2026.

The role will oversee both the National Tertiary 3x3 Championships (May 2026) and the National Tertiary 5x5 Basketball Championships (September 2026). For the right candidate(s), we are open to splitting the 3x3 and 5x5 responsibilities into separate roles.

The University’s men’s 3x3 programme has a strong history of success, having won two national titles and representing the University at the FISU University World Cup in 2018. This role offers the opportunity to replicate this achievement each year by qualifying through New Zealand and Australia to access international competition pathways.

The men’s 5x5 basketball programme is yet to be crowned national champions but has a strong foundation in place. With a deep talent pool spanning all year levels at the University, this is a unique opportunity to be the coach who leads the programme to its first-ever national title.

This engagement offers the chance to contribute to a growing and ambitious representative sport programme, while empowering student-athletes within a high-performance, values led university environment.

Based at Hiwa, Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland’s state‑of‑the‑art recreation centre in the heart of the city campus, you’ll have access to premium facilities and a vibrant community dedicated to athletic and personal excellence.

As the coach, you will be expected to lead:

• A fair and transparent trials process and final squad selection.
• A structured training plan and campaign environment that empowers student leadership, prepares the squad for national competition, and builds strong team culture that aligns with an overarching vision and philosophy specific to our representative teams.
• Coaching oversight that provides clear direction while encouraging athlete ownership, responsibility, and contribution to team standards.
• Innovative, engaging training sessions that reflect passion, creativity, and high performance.
• A supportive environment that prioritises student wellbeing alongside performance.
• Effective collaboration with the team manager, strength & conditioning support, and Sport & Recreation staff.
• A tournament‑ready team prepared for a successful championship performance.

This role seeks candidates with experience in:

• High‑performance basketball coaching (minimum three years at school, club, or higher level).
• Coaching across both 3x3 and 5x5 basketball formats
• Athlete development, performance planning, and implementing innovative coaching methods.
• Creating inclusive, supportive, and high‑functioning team environments that foster leadership and accountability.
• Supporting athlete welfare and working effectively with diverse student‑athletes.
• Clear communication and collaborative engagement within a multi‑stakeholder environment.

Contracting Details:

This is a contract‑for‑service arrangement.
The successful contractor will operate as an independent contractor, not an employee, and will invoice for services provided.

• Time commitment: Approximately 4 hours per week
• Contract period: February 2026 until end of September 2026, with the possibility of extension.
• Tournaments: National Tertiary 3x3 Championships (May 2026) & National Tertiary Basketball Championships (September 2026)
• Rate: Minimum $50 per hour, negotiable depending on experience
• Further information: Please view the attached Position Description for Contractors

Additional Information

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou | What We Offer

• Complimentary membership to Hiwa Recreational Facilities for the duration of the contract for services.
• All tournament‑related travel costs covered, including flights, accommodation, meals, and ground transport, where required as part of championship participation.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Please submit your application online by Tuesday, 17th of February 2026 (NZST)

Your application should include:

• A brief cover letter outlining your interest in this contract opportunity and how your skills and experience align with the service requirements.
• Your updated CV.

If you have any questions about the engagement, you are welcome to contact Jake McRae at [email protected]

Please note: while enquiries are welcome, all applications must be submitted online through the recruitment portal (Smart Recruiters).

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Equity

The University is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi and achieving equity outcomes for staff and students in a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment.  For further information on services for Māori, Pacific, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, people with disabilities, parenting support, flexible work and other personal circumstances go to www.equity.auckland.ac.nz