1-5 Squad tested ahead of regional challenge

The Auckland 1–5 Winter Quad squad enjoyed a valuable dress rehearsal at Royal Oak Bowls last Wednesday, hosting friendly matches against Maraetai and Pringle Park  ahead of next weekend’s representative fixture.

Competing across singles, pairs, triples and fours, the men’s and women’s squads both finished the evening with two wins and two losses. Highlights included strong victories in the men’s triples (26–15), women’s triples (11–1) and women’s fours (16–5), while several closely fought contests provided plenty of lessons and opportunities to perform under pressure.

The evening also highlighted emerging talent from Maraetai and Pringle Park, giving selectors an opportunity to assess promising players while helping clubs encourage participation and development within their ranks. The squad now turns its attention to Te Aroha on 4 July, where they will face Waikato, Thames Valley and Counties Manukau.

👉Read the full match report

Legends deliver at Papatoetoe

Bowls Papatoetoe successfully hosted its first major Auckland PBA event last weekend, providing a fitting preview of the National Finals set to be held at the venue in September.

Saturday's Scottish Singles qualifier saw a strong field of 24 players battle through the set-play knockout format. Veteran campaigners dominated the latter stages, with Colin Rogan edging Neil Fisher in a thrilling final. After dropping the opening set 6-8, Rogan bounced back strongly to claim the second 11-3 before securing the title with a 2-0 tie-break victory.

The standard lifted again on Sunday in the UK Singles qualifier. One of the standout matches featured Stephen Campbell and Selina Goddard, who had only just returned from contesting the Australian Open Pairs final. Campbell eventually prevailed in a quality encounter and carried that form all the way to the final.

Fisher and Campbell then produced another high-class showdown, with both players delivering under pressure in a match that showcased the very best of PBA bowls.

A huge thank you the awesome team at Papatoetoe for their outstanding hospitality and support throughout a demanding weekend of competition. Congratulations to all qualifiers and participants as Auckland PBA continues to go from strength to strength, with the circuit heading to Orewa next weekend for the World Singles qualifier.

Community rallies behind Team Tonga

By Aggie Motu

New Lynn Bowling Club was buzzing with community spirit last weekend as more than 80 bowlers, members and supporters came together for a successful fundraiser in support of the Tongan Commonwealth team.

The event was an awesome celebration of generosity, with plenty of food, music, and loads of fun both on and off the green. A highlight of the day was the impressive $2,500 raised to help Team Tonga on their journey.

Mussels, steaks, and sausages kept everyone well fed throughout the day, while the Millie Nathan's team headlined the win. John Petelo finished second,  Jamie Hill and rising young bowler Kyson Buchan close behind. Congratulations also to Emma, who took home the popular seafood basket raffle prize.

A huge well done to everyone who supported the day, and best wishes to Team Tonga as they continue their quest for Commonwealth success.

Home-Schooled students shine at Glen Eden

By Janet Phigia

Glen Eden Bowling Club recently wrapped up a successful nine-week bowls programme with the West Auckland Christian Homeschool Group, introducing 45 students aged 8–17 to the fundamentals of our great game.

Supported by seven dedicated club members and coaches, the youngsters developed their skills each week before coming together for a fun-filled finale on 23 June. The day featured a lively game of Spider, followed by a prizegiving where every participant received a certificate, alongside awards for tournament winners and most improved players.

Club President Siosiana Simpson and Hannah Neville, Bowls Auckland’s School Engagement & Inclusivity Lead, were on hand to present the prizes, with plenty of smiles and applause from students and families alike.

The celebrations continued with a shared lunch for students, parents, and volunteers, before some parents took to the green themselves – receiving coaching tips from their children and discovering a newfound appreciation for the sport.

A wonderful example of bowls bringing generations together and creating new connections within the community.

Going the Extra End: Bronwyn Holdsworth

Today we celebrate our latest Extra End Hero, Bronwyn Holdsworth, whose unwavering dedication and generosity have made a lasting impact at St Heliers Bowling Club.

Nominated by Roger Seaton, he describes Bronwyn as someone who consistently goes above and beyond, whether organising a remarkable number of corporate events, supporting fellow members, filling volunteer gaps, or helping keep club operations running smoothly as a board member.

Known for her kindness, leadership, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Bronwyn has helped foster a positive and welcoming culture within the club. Since joining St Heliers, her enthusiasm, professionalism, and selfless commitment have inspired those around her and strengthened the club community.

Congratulations, Bronwyn, and thank you for everything you do. You are a truly deserving Extra End Hero!

Nominate Your Extra End Hero!

Let's celebrate the Volunteers Who Go the Extra End!
Bowls clubs wouldn’t be the same without dedicated volunteers working behind the scenes. Whether they’re coaching, maintaining greens, running events, or simply lending a hand, they deserve recognition!

Do you know someone who is...
✅ A club hero who goes the extra end, no matter the task
✅ A good sort whose energy and commitment inspire others
✅ A local legend making a real impact on or off the green

👉Here's where you can nominate your Extra End Hero today!

Last chance to apply for the PPC 

Want to help shape the future of bowls in Auckland? Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 Playing Programme Committee (PPC).

Representing players, umpires and the wider bowling community, the Committee plays a key role in developing the Centre’s tournament programme and Conditions of Play. It's an opportunity to contribute your ideas, share your experience, and help ensure Auckland bowls continues to evolve with the needs of the game.

If you're passionate about the sport and keen to make a difference beyond the green, we'd love to hear from you. Applications close 30 June 2026.

👉Read more and how to apply