Job Description: Umpires for 2026 National Tournaments

Position Title: Umpire

Reports To: Referee (appointed by TTNZ)

Location: New Zealand

Background

Table Tennis New Zealand (TTNZ) is the recognised governing body for table tennis in New Zealand, accredited with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), International Table Tennis Federation-Oceania (ITTF-Oceania), Sport New Zealand (Sport NZ), High-Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ), Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ), and the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC). TTNZ exists to grow and support table tennis nationwide, inspiring players, coaches, and communities to engage with the sport at every level. Our vision is simple but ambitious: A sport for all, for life.

At TTNZ, our values guide everything we do:

  • Integrity – do the right thing. Acting with honesty, fairness, and accountability in all we do.
  • Community – stronger together. Fostering collaboration, inclusion, and meaningful relationships.
  • Innovation – learn and lead. Embracing new ideas, continuous improvement, and forward-thinking solutions.

TTNZ are committed to creating an inclusive, performance environment where athletes can reach their full potential and proudly represent New Zealand on the world stage.

TTNZ are seeking expressions of interest from all levels of Umpires to help with Officiating at our National Tournaments.

Position Overview

To umpire Table Tennis matches in accordance with TTNZ (and ITTF) rules and regulations, ensuring fair play, athlete safety, and a professional match environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Umpire individual matches.
    • Manage scoring, timekeeping, service order, intervals, and timeouts.
  • Apply TTNZ (and ITTF) rules and regulations consistently and confidently.
  • Conduct pre-match checks: equipment, clothing, racket control, and playing conditions.
  • Ensure proper athlete behaviour and intervene when necessary.
  • Communicate clearly and respectfully with players, coaches, and spectators.
  • Report irregularities, incidents, or rule breaches to the Tournament Referee.
  • Maintain accurate match records and submit results promptly.
  • Assist referees and TTNZ staff with general duties when required.
Key Competencies

Successful applicants will demonstrate:

  • Strong understanding of TTNZ and ITTF rules.
  • Calm, impartial, and decisive under pressure.
  • Ability to manage conflict or disputes professionally.
  • Strong focus on fairness, consistency, and detail.
  • Effective communication and confidence in a match environment.
  • Reliable and punctual.
Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Hold a current TTNZ or ITTF Umpire certification or equivalent.
  • Police vetting and safeguarding education with proof of certification will be required.
  • Be NZ-based for all required activities.
  • Umpiring experience is preferential but trainee umpires will be considered.
  • Demonstrate strong organisational and time-management skills.
  • Commit to ongoing professional development.
Time Commitment
  • Match sessions as per the Tournament schedule.
  • Attendance at pre-tournament briefing and post-session wrap-ups.
  • Post-event reporting and follow-up.
Appointments

Appointments will be based on key factors such as:

  • Knowledge and application of TTNZ and ITTF rules.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with referees, technical officials, and tournament staff.
  • Communication skills and confidence on court.
  • Professionalism, reliability, and resilience under pressure.
  • Previous experience at regional, national, or international events.

These appointments offer opportunities to contribute directly to the professional delivery of national tournaments.

Who Should Apply

This opportunity is suitable for umpires who are committed to growth, motivated to support fair play, and eager to contribute to the growth and success of table tennis in New Zealand.

TTNZ encourages applications from umpires who:

  • Have a strong understanding of table tennis rules and officiating procedures.
  • Are passionate about providing a fair, safe, and consistent playing environment.
  • Are reliable, composed, and able to make clear decisions under pressure.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and alignment with TTNZ values.
  • Are committed to ongoing learning and pursuing higher-level officiating qualifications.
Application Process
  1. Expression of Interest : Applications closes on Sunday, 11th January 2026, 11:59 PM

APPLY HERE

Remuneration

Umpires will be remunerated for services provided in accordance with TTNZ umpiring rates, which will be detailed in the letter of engagement issued to appointed umpires.

Contact 

For questions regarding the role, please contact:

Shane Laugesen
📞 022 063 0886
✉️ shane@tabletennis.nz

John Cordue
📞 022 457 1598
✉️ john@tabletennis.nz