Croquet New Zealand (CNZ) today announces that Tony O’Donnell is stepping down as Chair of the CNZ Board effective 1 July 2025.
Tony was elected to the old New Zealand Croquet Council at the Annual General Meeting in October 2019, and after the governance changes with the adoption of the current constitution, became Chair of the CNZ Board five years ago. Over those five years Tony has led CNZ through significant challenges, such as the Covid pandemic and the introduction of the Incorporated Societies Act 2022.
Tony will remain a Board Member until his current term finishes following the adoption of the new CNZ constitution. To ensure the Board will have continuity during this process Tony decided to step down now so the CNZ Board could appoint a new Chair to guide CNZ through the implementation of the new CNZ Constitution and the election of new Board Members.
The Board of CNZ and the Chief Executive would like to thank Tony for his service, commitment and dedication during some difficult times. Tony has always put CNZ first and the timing of his resignation as Chair is just another example of that.
The Board appointed Darla Blake as its new Chair. Darla will provide continuity as she is in her second term as Board Member and it does not expire until the AGM in 2026.
Darla has a wealth of experience in governance, strategic planning, and financial matters. She’s owned several successful businesses, in addition to holding various executive roles over 25 years in public service – providing advice and guidance to business owners, individuals, councillors, community boards in local government and guiding communities though their development processes.
Darla has a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Management, Post Graduate Certification in Economic Development, as well as having qualified as a Business and Personal Coach.
The Board of CNZ and the Chief Executive would like to congratulate Darla and are looking forward to working with her through the adoption and implementation of the new CNZ Constitution.
Darla expressed excitement about the opportunity ‘I am honoured to be chosen to serve as the new Chair for CNZ, particular during this critical time of transition and change. I wish to thank the current board for their support in appointing me as their new Chair.
To Tony, thank you for your valuable contribution and leadership over many years. And, we look forward to your continued participation on the board during the transition period.
To Stefan Horrer, Chief Executive (CE), I am sure others across the membership will join me in saying how truly saddened we are to hear the news of your decision to resign as our CE. On behalf of myself and the board we wish you all the very best in your future endeavours.
And most of all Stefan, we thank you for your outstanding contribution to CNZ over the past three years. Many of our members have no idea of the amount of time (including personal time) and energy you have put into helping us grow and mature as a professional organisation. No matter what the challenge, you have always remained professional, open and willing to look forward in the best interest of CNZ. Your contribution will be truly missed.
As your board we now have much work to do, particularly over the next year on our continuing journey – to mature and grow as an organisation and to develop croquet across NZ. Building strong relationships with our member affiliates through communication and support will be a cornerstone to our success. The board looks forward to all members being part of that journey, working together in their relevant capacity, for the love of croquet.’
