Northern Districts, the first of New Zealand's major associations to present their annual report this year, have declared a loss for the past season.

The loss was $72,991, a turnaround of $137,393 after last year's surplus of $57,402.

Sponsorships, donations and grants improved by nearly $17,000 and gate income increased by $19,000 and sundry costs, including interest payments, were down by $53,000.

Taking part in cricket competitions cost nearly an extra $70,000 last summer while coaching and development costs were up by just over $70,000.

Despite the financial result, the ND Association's general reserves showed a $20,000 improvement and now sit at $1,630,784.

ND chief executive officer John Turkington said: "Financially, it has been a very challenging season and obviously it is disappointing to record a small net deficit after a few years of surpluses.

"Whilst we are becoming increasingly dependent on funding from NZC and they in turn on the international product, we need to continue to maximise local funding to enhance our programmes.

"Next season promises to be an even greater challenge," he said.

© CricInfo