Our research
AUT SPRINZ is internationally recognised for delivering high-impact research to optimise human health, wellbeing, organisational capability, physical performance, and youth athlete development. The research at SPRINZ is driven by a team of globally respected experts, supported by cutting-edge laboratories, strong industry partnerships, and a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
Through its global partnerships and collaborations, SPRINZ continues to strengthen its international reputation while building meaningful connections between postgraduate research students and industry professionals around the world.
Highlighted projects
Women’s Health and Neuroscience research programme
The overall research programme focuses on women, women’s health, fertility, brain, nutrition, neuroendocrine and female athlete optimization. We wish to investigate the intricate relationship between hormones and concussion outcomes which is essential for developing targeted interventions and improving the well-being of females, who may experience unique hormonal responses after concussions. There will be a number of studies in the women’s health and neuroscience (WHN) research programme.
National Sport Club Survey (NSCS)
Since 2018, the National Sport Club Survey (NSCS) has generated insights about the management and operations of New Zealand’s community sport clubs.
The NSCS is run as a partnership between AUT SPRINZ and the New Zealand Amateur Sport Association (NZASA). Every sport club in New Zealand is invited to participate in this annual project. That now includes more than 7000 clubs across 90 sports and all 16 regions of New Zealand.
Navigating Two Worlds
Navigating Two Worlds: Pacific contribution to leadership within the New Zealand rugby system.
AUT-ACC-NSO SportSmart Research Programme
The AUT-ACC-NSO SportSmart research programme aims to provide evidence for six national sports organisations (NZ Rugby, NZ Rugby League, Football NZ, Touch NZ, Basketball NZ, and Netball NZ) on the effectiveness of their injury prevention initiatives. The collaboration includes scientists, health professionals, coaches, athletes and injury prevention staff.
Management of concussion in NZ secondary schools
The Head Smart Schools website was launched on 16 September 2025. The development of the website was funded by an HRC Activation grant and builds on the work conducted over a number of years by researchers from AUT Sport Research Institute NZ (AUT SPRINZ), the University of Otago and NZ Rugby. The website is a resource designed to support the management of concussion in NZ secondary schools.
For more information, please contact headsmartschoolsnz@aut.ac.nz
Areas of expertise
Developing impactful research in pedagogy and practice in schools and higher education.
Investigating the mechanical, neurological, biochemical and behavioural components of human movement.
Helping local and international organisations make strategic, cost-effective, evidence-based decisions.
Determining the efficacy of training, nutrition and ergogenic interventions.
Developing applied technology, innovative products and services that improve human performance.
Developing endurance, strength and power to improve athlete performance.
Supporting coaches, athletes and sports organisations through development, education, research and consulting.
Developing impactful research to enhance the quality of life and lifespan of ageing adults.
Using applied research to support rugby organisations, teams and players.
Reducing injury risk and improving performance in gym sports.
Improving performance and reducing injury risk in court sports.
For more information, please contact headsmartschoolsnz@aut.ac.nz
Volunteer internships
SPRINZ offers a variety of unpaid volunteer internships for university students who want to gain experience in a research and workplace environment .
Video: SPRINZ research
Check out the research happening across all SPRINZ research groups.