New Zealand Netball Championships Format Announced

Netball New Zealand announced today the new format for its national provincial championships. The new structure will include an extended five-week round robin competition played in different regional centres beginning 6 September and culminating with a finals tournament 29 September-4 October to be held in Rotorua.



Following the introduction of the new ANZ Championship, Netball New Zealand undertook a review process in consultation with its regions to revamp the current championships. The new format provides a greater replication of the ANZ Championship environment and gives more match play opportunities for up-coming players.



NNZ Chief Executive Raelene Castle said it was an exciting development for Netball New Zealand and its twelve regions.



“The new format gives the players the opportunity to play in front of their home crowd. We think this will further develop the regional pride aspect of this competition,” she said.



“With the introduction of the ANZ Championship this year, it was vital that an enhanced competition be established that will foster and prepare New Zealand’s talent for both the ANZ Championship and future Silver Ferns”.



“As netball in New Zealand enters an exciting new era, this tournament provides players, coaches and officials with greater opportunities to develop their skills and experience in a competitive environment”.



NNZ is currently working to secure a naming rights sponsor and anticipates further announcements will be made next month.