Future on the Green: The Rise of Youth Bowls in Aotearoa

Youth bowls is thriving across Aotearoa, thanks in large part to the incredible work of our Regional Youth Leads. These dedicated leaders are at the heart of the movement, delivering school-based programmes that introduce bowls to students from Year 6 to Year 13. Through taster sessions, awareness days, and structured development opportunities, they’re helping grow the game from the grassroots up.

Participation is on the rise, with numbers jumping from 9,901 in 2023 to an impressive 16,782 in 2024.

By working closely with schools, local clubs, and communities, Regional Youth Leads are creating fun, inclusive environments where rangatahi can learn new skills, build friendships, and discover a lifelong sport. Their collaboration with clubs is key to making bowls more visible, accessible, and exciting for young people across the country.

This momentum was on full display at the 2024 Secondary School Bowls Championships, which saw record participation, fresh formats, and a growing passion for the sport among young players.

March

  • Auckland Secondary School Champs: 146 students competed in pairs, split between Development (Auckland Bowling Club) and Championship (Mt Eden Bowling Club).
  • Dunedin Secondary School: Revived for the first time since 2012, 12 mixed pairs teams played in a 2-4-2 format at Milton Bowling Club.
  • Southland Secondary School Champs: Held at Te Rangi and North End Bowling Clubs, featuring 20 mixed triples teams and 6 disabled singles players.

April

  • Wellington Secondary School Champs: Hosted at Tawa Bowling Club with 17 singles players and 18 pairs teams.
  • Thames Valley Secondary School Champs: 36 students competed at Mercury Bay Bowling Club, with Hauraki Plains taking the win.

May

  • Northland Secondary School Champs: 62 rangatahi competed in a pairs format at Kamo Bowling Club.

While weather unfortunately disrupted events in Canterbury and Tasman, the overall growth of youth bowls is undeniable. With Regional Youth Leads championing the sport and more schools embracing bowls as part of their sporting calendar, the future of the game is in great hands.

If your centre or club would like to host a Secondary School Bowls event in your area, please get in contact with Cole Drinnan – Rangatahi Lead cole@bowlsnewzealand.co.nz