In response to Minister of Sport Trevor Mallard's promise of athletics scholarships, she said the money would be helpful, but there was also a need to focus on coaching.
Chef de mission Les Mills agreed, and said coaching was the key to a higher medal tally.
"New Zealand will continue to win medals. The question is do we want to be doing better? That's a big debate and a serious debate."
Bronze medallist Aaron McIntosh pointed out that this was the first Olympic Games for a number of New Zealand competitors.
"You can't prepare for the Olympic Games without an Olympic Games under your belt," he said.
While the medal winners were popular arrivals, they weren't necessarily the main attraction.
Four members of the North Shore Swimming Club had prepared a banner to welcome home their clubmates, who were part of the Olympic swimming team.
"They did really well," said Julia McFadzien. "A lot of them got into the semifinals, and that was what they were hoping for. We're pretty proud of their performance."
The banner was one of several dotted around the hall. Others said "Thumbs Up NZ Olympians" and "Welcome Home Dad."
But it was welcome home Mum in four-year-old Jack Iredale's case.
His mother, Fiona, was part of the judo squad and came 9th overall.
Jack and father Paul travelled to Sydney to watch her compete.
"The little fella was really excited by it all, and was a great supporter." Mr Iredale said.
"He even shouted, 'Get off my mum' at one point."
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