Taylor Bowls NZ partners with Bowls Auckland

Bowls Auckland is excited to announce a new partnership with Taylor Bowls New Zealand, now our official retail and apparel partner.

Taylor Bowls is well-known within the bowling community and CEO Dean Bartlett commented, “We are always looking to partner with companies and organisations that share our vision. This partnership not only brings mutual benefits to both parties but also supports our wider community, including clubs and members.”

As part of this partnership, Bowls Auckland club-affiliated members (any membership category) will receive a 10% discount for online purchases through Taylor Bowls website using the discount code ‘BAKL10’ (note: the discount is only redeemable online).

Taylor 8s

Not only are we thrilled with our new partnership with Taylor Bowls NZ, but we're also excited they now hold the naming rights for the Interclub 8s, which will be named Taylor 8s. Along with the new naming rights, there are changes to the playing format based on feedback from numerous clubs.

Considering clubs' valuable input, we've decided to reinstate divisions for the 2024-2025 season, where applicable—excluding Any Combination & Half Day 6s, and subject to team entries. We appreciate the clubs who took the time to share their thoughts.

Reverting to the tiered system gives us a chance to engage in further consultation regarding proposed changes for future events, with discussions taking place through platforms like the Delegates Forum. It's important to understand the ‘why’ behind any proposed changes, fostering a two-way conversation with our clubs.

Although entries in this event (especially the men’s and women’s grades) have been declining, we’re optimistic about reversing this trend through ongoing dialogue with clubs.

We look forward to your club’s participation—don’t forget, entries close on 29 September!

Future coaching stars

This past weekend, Bowls Auckland had the privilege of hosting Graeme Rees, National Coach Developer for Bowls New Zealand, who, together with Bowls Auckland Coach Developer Les Eagleton, spearheaded the Foundation and Development coaching courses. These sessions mark the beginning of many aspiring coaches' journeys, offering an intensive and thorough curriculum designed to 'build the foundations' of coaching excellence.

Opening Day at Auckland BC

-- Analiese Rands

Auckland Bowling Club, the oldest bowling club in the southern hemisphere celebrated its 163^rd Opening Day on 1 September hosted by President Rohan Bignell. A beautiful sunny first day of spring, marked by a fun-filled roll-up opening with the season's first bowl by Waitematā Local Board Member Richard Northey and followed by a day of camaraderie on the green. Here’s to another season of great games and lasting memories!

Opening Day at Blockhouse Bay

-- Esther Eu

Despite a wet start to the day (31 August), that didn’t stop our wonderful members from turning up for our official start of the season. A big thank you to everyone who made yesterday possible. Good luck to all for the coming bowls season.

Tat-Pac chase National Power Pairs title

This weekend, Te Atatu bowlers Jean-Claude Fuller and Zak Buckingham will compete at the New Lynn Bowling Club in the National Power Pairs Final. Organised by Short-Form Bowls, this newly created event brings together top 1–8-year players from across the country, with 16 of the 26 regions holding qualifiers. The winning pairs now meet to battle for national glory.

Jean-Claude and Zak have proven to be a formidable duo, demonstrating exceptional synergy that elevates their game. As they prepare for this ultimate challenge, the Bowls Auckland community will be cheering them on in their pursuit of the national title.

Photo: Jean-Claude and Zak winning the regional qualifier at New Lynn last month.