Double defended at Octagonals

Auckland took out both Premier and Development Octagonal titles after a high-pressure weekend at Howick and Browns Bay.

The Premier Women’s consistency edging the title by just half a match point, while the Premier Men finished a close second to help secure the overall crown. At Development level, Auckland went back-to-back in dominant fashion, highlighted by an undefeated men’s side and a composed women’s campaign that came down to the final bowl.

With National Intercentre selection looming, the Octagonal provided the perfect testing ground, and our Auckland’s squads delivered when it mattered.

Next up: Intercentre local greens, with the 1–5 Year Octagonal team to be named ahead of defending their title in Tauranga.

👉 Read full recap here

The Year of the Horse

The Lunar New Year in 2026 welcomes the Year of the Horse according to the Chinese lunar calendar. Celebrated by millions around the world, this is a time for cultural traditions, family reunions, and hopes for good fortune in the coming year.

In 2026, Lunar New Year falling on 17 February, kicking off the 16-day Spring Festival.

As we leave behind the introspective and intuitive Year of the Snake, the Year of the Horse gallops in with vibrant and fiery energy, symbolising adventure, vitality, and momentum.

👉To celebrate, here are some of the best things to do in Auckland this Lunar New Year

Breakthrough weekend at Auckland 1–5 Singles

-- Jess MacKinven, Convenor

The Auckland 1–5 Singles delivered on its promise of new opportunities and unpredictable results, with emerging players stepping up across a high-quality weekend of competition.

Maraetai’s semifinal run highlighted the growing depth across our clubs, while tight contests throughout the draw showcased the composure and tactical maturity of Auckland’s next generation.

Donna Davison (St Heliers) claimed the women’s title with a strong 21–17 win over Tracey Brayshaw (Pt Chevalier), while Sam Brack (Mt Wellington) secured the men’s championship 21–16 against Stephen Thom (Mt Eden).

With several former 1–5 players now progressing into representative squads, this year’s event confirmed the strength of the development pathway and the exciting talent coming through.

A big thank you to our host clubs, officials and volunteers for a fantastic championship.

👉 Read the full event recap

Molecheck Moment!

Before you dive into the Molecheck Pathway 7s and Auckland Cup draw, take a minute for something just as important as who you’re playing – your skin health.

We’ve all asked Google about a suspicious mole, but nothing beats a professional check. This latest Molecheck article explains the ABCs of mole monitoring and why early detection matters.

Bowls Auckland affiliated members receive 23% off a full mole check examination 💙

Rangatahi momentum building across Auckland

-- Hannah Neville

Rangatahi across Auckland are discovering the fun, the skills, and the community of the game!
Strong school–club connections and growing student interest are driving real momentum in our Rangatahi programme. With more than 2,000 students already taking part this season, and after-school hubs about to launch - bowls is gaining a genuine foothold in school communities.

From NCEA pathways to Secondary School Pairs Day, the opportunities for young people to stay involved are expanding, and clubs are playing a key role in making that happen.

Clubs across Auckland are seeing first-hand the energy and enthusiasm rangatahi bring. Students aren’t just participating; they’re asking how to continue, how to improve, and how to get more involved. It’s creating a new culture where young bowlers feel welcome, connected, and excited to be part of the sport.

👉 Read the full update on how schools and clubs are working together to create meaningful rangatahi experiences - and how your club can get involved!

Player Survey Open – Have Your Say

How are we tracking this season? What’s working well? What could be better?

Bowls Auckland is reviewing key parts of our playing programme, including qualifying formats for centre events and we want to hear directly from you. Player feedback plays an important role in shaping next season’s calendar and Conditions of Play.

Our latest Player Engagement Survey is now live. It’s quick (around five minutes) and gives you the chance to rate your overall experience, communication and event delivery, as well as share your thoughts on future formats.

👉Learn more and complete the survey

Remuera Extended delivers tight finish

-- Murray Lander

Remuera Bowling Club’s flagship Extended Tournament on 11–12 February served up two days of competitive, high-quality bowls in ideal conditions, with 24 teams taking to the greens.

In a closely contested event there were no six-win teams, and just one side finished with five wins, the Carlton Cornwall trio skipped by Norman Ng, alongside John Corse-Scott and Leighton Bristol (pictured), claimed the title. Their consistent performance proved the difference in a field where margins were razor thin.

The Birkenhead/Pt Chevalier combination can count themselves particularly unlucky. Undefeated across the tournament, their record of three wins and three draws ultimately left them in fourth place. A reflection of just how tight the standings were.

This year’s shift from the traditional fours to a three-bowl triples format proved a success, attracting increased entries and adding a fresh dynamic to the event.

Special thanks go to Frank Parkinson for once again coordinating entries and results, ably supported by Rosemary Ellyett, and to long-time sponsor Tiger Turf for their continued backing of the tournament. A well-run event, strong fields and a nail-biting finish,  another excellent edition of the Remuera Extended.