About Us
Whangarei Academy of Gymnastics (WAGS) was founded in 1991, originally located at 18 Winger Crescent in Kamo. Initially an artistic gymnastics club, WAGS has grown into a multi-sport facility with over 600 athletes. On October 20th, 2012, we moved into our current facility at the TRIGG Sports Arena, 25 Park Avenue in Kensington.
Our gym is well-equipped with all men's and women's apparatus, as well as Olympic trampolines, a 25m inflatable tumbling track, and a foam pit. We provide gymnastics programs for all ages, from our littlest gymnasts at 12 months to adults. Whether you're a beginner wanting to learn new skills or an experienced athlete aiming to compete nationally or internationally, we have a class for you. We also run holiday programs and can take bookings for school groups and birthday parties.
We offer four disciplines under one roof: Trampoline, Tumble, Artistic Gymnastics, and Cheerleading. These disciplines have classes for all ages and abilities, from recreational to competitive.
Staff and Head Coaches
At Whangarei Academy of Gymnastics (WAGS), our dedicated and passionate team is the backbone of our success. Each one brings unique skills and extensive experience to provide exceptional training and support to our athletes. Meet the remarkable individuals who make WAGS a thriving community and a place where athletes of all ages can reach their full potential.
The first person you will be greeted by is our office administrator extraordinaire, Wendy White. Wendy has been with us since March 2019 and handles all administrative needs. From enrolments to merchandise and the daily behind-the-scenes operations, Wendy ensures everything runs smoothly.
The driving force of our gym is the one and only Vicki Macdonald, who has been involved in gymnastics for over four decades. A wealth of knowledge and information, Vicki serves as our Club Manager and is dedicated to the sport. Her passion and joy for gymnastics are evident in everything she does.
James Merry - has stepped into the Operations Manager role in October 2024. He has a love of sport and we are looking forward to see what he adds to the gym.
Annie Prout leads our Gymfun program and assists with the competitive tumbling. Annie is also a full time firefighter. Annie is an incredible role model for our young athletes and has done an amazing job developing our recreational gymnastics programs.
Casamae Sinclair is our lead coach for Trampoline. She is committed to helping her trampolinists excel both mentally and physically.
Jodie Allely is our lead coach for Tumbling and Trampoline. A FIG Level 2 qualified trampoline and tumbling coach with a background in exercise science, Jodie's exceptional knowledge has propelled our tumbling program towards international competition.
Anna Plourde joined our WAGS team in April 2025 and has been coaching gymnastics for 30 years in both the US and New Zealand.
Mike Plourde, also joined our team in April 2025 and from the USA, is our new MAG Lead Coach. With international coaching and judging experience Mike is wanting to promote mens gymnastics and really grow this challenging code.
Petrina Platt has been involved in gymnastics at WAGS for most of her life. From gymnast and Northland representative, to judge and coach of WAG and MAG programmes. Petrina is now back at WAGS as our Play Gym Lead.
Petrina brings a complete package of knowledge and experience combined with an enthusiasm for gymnastics which can’t be matched.
