The fourth annual NZ Beach Hockey Championships will once again hit the sand at Mount Maunganui's Main Beach on Saturday, January 16.
After a revamped one-day event that was hugely successful in 2015, the format returns this year with an increase in team numbers. Nearly all of the 16 spots in the competition have been filled well in advance, signalling a strong interest in hockey's version of T/20 cricket.
"The interest we have had already suggests the event could be our best yet," organiser Kate Savory said. "We've got teams from New Plymouth, Hamilton, and Auckland, as well as a number of local teams."
Teams will compete for the coveted Giant Jandal, with local hockey icon Lincoln Churchill in search of his third straight title after back-to-back victories the previous two years.
The competition is mixed and played five-a-side inside an inflatable surround. Specially-made beach hockey sticks are used and the ball is similar to a mini soccer ball, enabling plenty of aerial skills to be displayed.
