Waitangi Day means different things to different people. For some, it's a chance to connect with friends and whānau, to relax and enjoy a summer day off, while for others, it's an opportunity to reflect on a defining moment in Aotearoa New Zealand’s history.  

In Tāmaki Makaurau, there have been numerous free, family-friendly events full of tasty kai, great music and enriching kōrero to commemorate our national holiday. 

Bowls legend Val Smith announces international retirement

The legendary Val Smith has announced her retirement from the sport following more than 20 years of international competition. 

Smith leaves elite bowls as the nations most capped athlete, having played a staggering 667 international matches for New Zealand. She has won two World Championship Titles (1x singles, 1x pairs) and a total of nine World Championship medals. 

The 59-year-old says the decision to retire comes with mixed emotions, but she knows the time is right.

“Bowls has been such a big part of my life for so long. Honestly, I wish it would never end, but after such a long career, this just feels like the right time,” Smith said.

👉 Read Bowls NZ full story here

NZ women fall short against Australia

The New Zealand Women’s BlackJacks have come agonisingly close to a Trans Tasman tournament victory but have had to settle for second place due to a points differential.

The Kiwi women went into the final day of competition at NaeNae Bowling Club in Wellington with a two-game lead, however, Australia were clinical in their morning matches, winning all four games to take a 9-7 lead with just two games remaining.

After a narrow one-point loss in her morning match, Tayla Bruce came back with a vengeance in the Singles, securing a commanding 7-2 first-set win before sealing the victory 11-2 in the second-set against Australia’s Dawn Hayman.

👉 Read Bowls NZ full story here

Women’s squads named for Octagonal Challenge!

The stage is set! Bowls Auckland is delighted to confirm the Women’s Premier and Development teams heading into the Octagonal Challenge on 15 & 16 February.

With top talent from across the regions lining up to compete, our Auckland teams are ready to step up and showcase their skills! Wishing all selected players the very best.

Let the countdown begin!

2025 Rangatahi Programme Rolls into Action!

Bowls Auckland is launching its 2025 Rangatahi Roll Up Programme, an exciting lineup of events designed to engage, challenge, and inspire the next generation of bowlers! With participation numbers rising, this year’s programme is bigger and better than ever, offering something for everyone—whether new to the sport or a rising star! 

With a mix of structured competitions, fun festival days, and in-school activations, there's something for every student keen to give bowls a go. This programme is designed to develop skills, build friendships, and make bowls more accessible across Auckland. 

👉 Find out more

Regional Hubs 

Three weeks of fun, friends, and friendly competition!
Kicking off the 2025 Rangatahi RollUp Programme is our Regional Hubs competition! Over three weeks, students can enjoy a fun and structured format, playing in pairs at one of four convenient locations across Auckland.

With two games per night and a focus on fun, the Regional Hubs are about making bowls accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Key details:

• Dates: Tuesdays – 25 February, 4 & 18 March 2025
• Time: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
• Venues: New Lynn (West), Royal Oak (Central), Howick (East), Otahuhu Railway (South)
• Entry Fee: $20 per team

Contact your school’s sports coordinator to enter through College Sport Auckland. 

1-5 Year Interclub – Entries now open!

Get your teams together—1-5 Year Interclub is back! This is the perfect opportunity to test their skills and represent your club.

Each team consists of six players, competing in Singles, Pairs, and Triples. The winning team will not only claim bragging rights but also earn a place at the prestigious Mercedes Cup in May!