Referee Development Framework

WPNZ has redeveloped the WPNZ Referee Development Framework in 2025. This new framework is a comprehensive guide to becoming, maintaining and developing referees across New Zealand.

To see how a current qualification transfers to the new framework, see details here.

Become a Qualified Referee

To start your journey as a qualified referee, use this guide to find the best level of referee qualification for the games you want to referee.

Local Referee

All WPNZ members can sit the Local Referee course and exam online. These can be accessed via your Friendly Manager account. Follow the steps in this useful guide to sit this course and exam.

C-Grade Referee

All WPNZ members are encouraged to complete their C-Grade Education. The education modules can be accessed via your Friendly Manager account for self-directed learning, or can be completed during an in-person C-Grade course, held throughout the year around New Zealand. To access the exam, you must attend an in-person C-Grade exam. Follow the steps in this useful guide to register for the C-Grade Referee education modules.

B-Grade Referee

All WPNZ C-Grade Referees are encouraged to complete their B-Grade Education when they feel ready to progress. The education modules can be completed during an in-person B-Grade course, held throughout the year around New Zealand.

Qualified Referees and Friendly Manager

Within the new framework, WPNZ is utilising our Friendly Manager platform to track Referee qualifications. Follow the steps in this useful guide to manage your development, education, yearly registration and qualification tracking.