Join Wānaka FC
Your next step
Why Choose Wānaka FC?
4 Days a Week
One of NZ's most intensive training environments outside the fully professional game.
Player Progression
We want to help you progress to the next level - National League, international, and pro.
Top-Tier Competition
Play in the Southern League against clubs from Christchurch, Dunedin and Nelson.
Life in Wānaka
Mountains, lake, and world-class outdoor lifestyle — one of NZ's most stunning locations.
Professional Coaching
Valerio Raccuglia
Head Coach
Wānaka FC's head coach brings an elite pedigree that is rare at any level of the game in New Zealand. Valerio's coaching career has spanned some of the most respected programmes in Oceania and the Pacific, including:
- Wellington Phoenix FC
- New Zealand U20 & U23 National Teams
- Samoa U16 & U19 National Teams
- Auckland City FC
Playing under Valerio means being coached by someone who has worked at the highest levels of football in New Zealand and the Pacific — and whose network can open doors to your next opportunity.
About the Club
Established in 2010, Wānaka FC has grown from a community club to one of the largest in Otago, with over 500 junior members, three senior teams, and a year-round academy programme. Promoted to the Southern League at the start of the 2025 season, the men's team now competes at the top tier of New Zealand football.
What the Club Offers
The opportunity to develop with four sessions per week plus a game.
Trained by one of the most experienced & respected coaches in the country.
Review your performance and study opponents with structured video sessions.
We actively work to springboard players to bigger clubs, National League, or pro contracts.
We can assist players in finding suitable accommodation in Wānaka.
We can connect players with local work opportunities during their time here.
What We're Looking For
Wānaka FC is recruiting players for the 2027 season. You will be based in Wānaka from January to September 2027, training and competing at the highest domestic level in New Zealand. We're looking for players who are serious about developing their game and pushing towards the next level of their career.
About Wānaka
Wānaka is a ski and summer resort town on New Zealand's South Island. With a population of just 13,000 people, it is known for its stunning scenery — the lake, snowy mountains, and the famous Wānaka tree. It's a place where players don't just come to play football; they come to live exceptionally well.
Hear From Our Graduates
Discover what our former players have to say about their experience at Wānaka FC
Blaine Mabie
Midfielder - 22
"Often times I felt the training was harder than the games..."
Phoenix Coursey
Midfielder - 20
"The brand of football we play has been awesome..."
Louis Wickremesekera
Midfielder - 19
"This is where I've improved the most ..."