Friday Flash 17 April 2026

Orion power to 1-5 Interclub glory

Royal Oak Orion have claimed the 2026 1–5 Interclub title, overcoming a competitive Blockhouse Bay side to secure a 3–0 win in the final.

After progressing through section play as one of the favourites, Orion delivered when it counted edging tight singles and pairs matches before dominating the triples to seal the title.

Blockhouse Bay were impressive throughout the event, knocking out several strong contenders on their way to the final.

Orion now go on to represent Auckland at the Mercedes Cup on 2 May - we wish them all the best.

👉 Read full recap here

Six women & six men selected to the NZ Team

First athletes named for Glasgow 2026 as NZ Team marks 100 days to go
The New Zealand Olympic Committee and Bowls New Zealand are proud to announce the first athletes selected to the New Zealand Team for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Today also doubles as an important milestone in the lead up to Glasgow 2026 with 100 days to go until the Games.

👉 Read full NZOC media release

U26 Pairs scores Silver Star status

A major win for youth bowls! The St George National U26 Pairs has been awarded Silver Star status by Bowls New Zealand.

From 2027, the event will be included on the national calendar, boosting its profile and helping protect it from scheduling clashes. It’s a big step forward that will support stronger participation and continued growth.

A fantastic result for an event that’s all about connecting and celebrating our next generation of players.

👉 Read more here

Silver lining for Auckland BC at National 7s

By Analiese Rands

Auckland BC made their mark at the National 7s, with both men’s and women’s teams delivering standout campaigns on the national stage.

The women also produced a strong showing, advancing to the quarterfinals before narrowly going down 1–2 to Paritutu (Taranaki), capping off a competitive and spirited campaign. The men surged all the way to the final, ultimately securing a well-earned silver after a thrilling 1–2 result against Stoke Bowls. A fantastic achievement and another impressive addition to their growing record.

Across the board, both teams showcased pride and high-quality bowls, with plenty of positive noise around their performances throughout the event.

A big thank you to the players, the club for its support, along with the team managers. Plenty to be proud of – and no doubt Auckland BC will be back, hungrier than ever, next year.

Triples battles & Singles spotlight

It’s another big weekend on the greens, with the Men’s Triples and Women’s Singles taking centre stage… the draws are locked in and the storylines are already building.

In the Men’s Triples, Pt Chevalier brings serious firepower with three formidable combinations skipped by Jean-Claude Fuller, Aiden Takarua, and Kevin Morris. All face tough opening tests, with quality opposition right across the draw. With around 16–20 qualification spots up for grabs from a field of 60, expect a fiercely contested battle from the outset. Contenders to watch include skips Adam Blucher, Adam Haywood, David Ball, Neil Fisher, and Tony Grantham.

Over in the Women’s Singles, it’s a stacked field blending proven performers and rising talent. Keep an eye on Aggie Motu, Hannah Dawson, Henrietta Scott, Nicole Singer, Skey Renes & Tracey Brayshaw as they look to make their mark. Adding extra significance, Jhanna Savov lines up for her final Auckland Centre appearance before heading overseas, pausing a standout chapter in her bowls journey.

👉 Read our preview
👉 Follow the results

Best of luck to all players, play well, and keep an eye on conditions as the weekend unfolds.

Halberg Games 2026

By Hannah Neville

Last weekend, Bowls Auckland was thrilled to be part of the Halberg Games 2026, a three-day national sporting festival designed exclusively for physically disabled and visually impaired young people aged 8–21.

Despite the weather forecast forcing the Games to conclude at the end of day two, the joy of the 250+ participants from around Aotearoa was second to none. We delivered a taster session on Saturday afternoon, giving participants and their whānau the chance to get involved. The Rookie Roller sets were a real highlight, designed with inclusivity in mind. They feature ramps, extendable arms & soft bowls, ensuring everyone can participate safely and simply focus on having fun.

The Halberg Foundation also offered free inclusivity training for all 20 sports ahead of the event. This was incredibly valuable and has further strengthened our understanding of how we can continue to remove barriers and make bowls accessible for all. We look forward to being part of this incredible event again next year.

👉 The Halberg Foundation has shared their top 10 moments. Plus, you can also check out their photo album

Poppies are growing in Henderson!

There’s a new face at Henderson Bowling Club, although for many in the bowls community, it’s a familiar one. Simon Poppleton (aka 'Poppy') has stepped into the Club Manager role, bringing a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for the game.

Previously in a similar role at New Lynn Bowling Club, Simon arrives with a clear focus on building a strong club culture & deepening community connections, to position Henderson as a true local hub.

Known for his people-first approach, he’s committed to making bowls accessible, enjoyable & relevant to a wider audience.

He has also been actively involved with Bowls Auckland’s Rangatahi (youth) programme, introducing bowls to secondary school students across the region.

His appointment signals an exciting time for the club. As it celebrates its centenary year, Henderson is looking to evolve both on and off the green to secure its future. While rich in history, including hosting bowls at the 1974 British Commonwealth Games, the club, like many, is focused on modernising & making the most of its facilities.

With experience across operations, events, and player engagement, Poppy is well placed to help lead this next chapter alongside the club’s board.

Club Delegates help shape new season calendar

Bowls Auckland this week hosted a Club Delegates Forum, bringing together representatives from 18 clubs, along with members of the Playing Programme Committee (PPC) and President Helen Blick.

The forum focused on gathering input to help shape the 2026–2027 playing calendar. It was widely acknowledged that clubs and players have differing preferences. While not every request can be accommodated, all feedback is considered as part of a balanced and inclusive planning process.

Clubs were broadly aligned on the need to address minor adjustments, particularly around Conditions of Play, and to continue working towards reducing congestion across the calendar.

The PPC will now review the feedback before finalising the 2026-27 calendar for publication.

CEO Dean Bartlett said, “It was great to see such a strong turnout of club representatives. The input from these club leaders will help shape the 2026-27 calendar.”

New date for Development Coaching Course

Cyclone Vaianu may have thrown a spanner in the works last weekend, but we’re back on track with a new date for the Development Coaching Course (only).

If you were already booked in, or keen to jump on board, lock in Sunday 3 May, 9am–4pm at Bowls Auckland office, Mt Eden.

Just a heads up… completing the Foundation Course is a must before attending this one. 👉Register here

Not quite sure if you’re eligible? Flick an email through to Les at les@bowlsauckland.co.nz and she’ll point you in the right direction.

Reminder - Coaching Committee applications closing soon

A quick reminder that applications to join the Bowls Auckland Coaches Committee close on 30 April.

If you’re passionate about developing coaches and supporting players across the region, this is a great opportunity to get involved and make an impact.

Don’t miss your chance, we’d love to hear from you.

👉 Find out more and apply here