Tauranga Hosts the Nation: Ingham Tauranga Backs 2026 NZ Petanque Club Championships
30 April, 2026
The Tauranga Bay of Plenty Petanque Club took centre stage on 18–19 April 2026, hosting the 2026 New Zealand National Clubs Championship, one of the most significant events on the national petanque calendar. With 17 teams travelling from as far afield as Dunedin and Kerikeri, the competition brought some of the country’s finest players to Tauranga’s pistes for a memorable weekend of boules.
The field included players who have represented New Zealand at World, Oceania, and Trans-Tasman Championship level, making for an exceptionally competitive two days. Despite some threatening clouds on Saturday and a brief shower Sunday morning, the weather cooperated and the event ran smoothly from start to finish.
Tournament organisers acknowledged the support of Ingham Tauranga, whose sponsorship helped make the championship possible, including enabling the club to field two teams of six players. This support reflects Ingham Tauranga’s ongoing commitment to local sport and the community clubs that bring people together across the Bay of Plenty.
Proudly representing their home pistes, the Tauranga club entered two teams into the competition. Tauranga Gold, the club’s Senior side, delivered a strong performance to finish 9th overall and claim 3rd in the Senior division. Tauranga Blue rounded out their campaign in 13th place in a deep and talented Open field.
On the national stage, Herne Bay 1 were crowned Champions, with Herne Bay 2 finishing as runners-up. The Hibiscus Hallions took home the Senior runner-up title, while Bay View claimed third place and the Senior winner’s title, a fantastic result for both clubs.
The event was testament to the dedication of the local club’s volunteers and committee, who pulled together to ensure every attendee had a great experience. Particular recognition was given to Betty for her umpiring role, a vital but often thankless responsibility without which tournaments simply cannot run.
As Club President Linda and the committee noted, feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many keen to return. Several participants pointed out that Tauranga’s central location makes it an ideal North Island host, a sign that the club’s reputation as a welcoming and well-organised venue is well and truly established.
With the backing of community-minded local businesses like Ingham Tauranga, the club can continue to grow the sport, stage events at a national level and ensure that petanque remains accessible and enjoyable for players across the country.
