Rising Kiwi tennis pros James Watt and Isaac Becroft will be back for their third successive event. Photo / Tennis New Zealand
Rising Kiwi tennis pros James Watt and Isaac Becroft will be back for their third successive event. Photo / Tennis New Zealand
The EVES Open World Tennis Tour Tauranga is set to serve up another thrilling week of world-class tennis this month, bolstered by a $40,000 funding boost from TECT to enhance this year’s event.
From December 16 to 22, the Venture Developments Western Bay of Plenty Tennis Centre in Parton Rd, Pāpāmoa, will host rising tennis stars from across the globe.
Now in its third year, the tournament is a highlight of the international circuit, attracting over 500 players, coaches and officials from more than 20 countries in its first two years.
The EVES Open, part of the official world tennis circuit, allows players to compete for world ranking points as they begin their professional journeys.
The funding provided by TECT ensures the tournament remains free and accessible to the community.
TECT deputy chairwoman Kate Barry-Piceno expressed pride in the event’s impact, and said TECT is proud to support an event that showcases Tauranga on the global stage while delivering real benefits to the community.
“From economic contributions to promoting inclusivity through wheelchair tennis and family-friendly activities, this tournament truly enriches our region,” Barry-Piceno said.
“The EVES Open inspires people of all ages and abilities to get involved in tennis and celebrates the vibrancy of Pāpāmoa as a destination.
“It’s a privilege to help bring such a high-quality event to our region.”
Tennis New Zealand commercial and marketing manager Gareth Archer said Tauranga is the ideal host city.
“Tauranga offers everything needed for an exceptional event – a fantastic tennis facility, strong local support and a summer setting that players and fans love. The relaxed holiday atmosphere in Pāpāmoa makes this tournament truly special.”
Former NZ Paralympian Tiffiney Perry in action during the NZ Wheelchair Tennis Championships, held as part of the event. Photo / Tennis New Zealand
Archer said the event offers spectators a unique experience.
“If you’ve never seen top-level tennis up close, it’s an amazing sight to witness how hard these players hit the ball and their incredible skill on the court.”
This year’s event includes wheelchair tennis have-a-go sessions to encourage local wheelchair users to try tennis in a welcoming and fun environment.
It also includes an expanded holiday programme so kids can learn tennis skills, meet the players and experience the action firsthand.
The NZ Wheelchair Tennis Championships will again run alongside the World Tennis Tour, celebrating the sport’s diversity and inclusivity.
Looking ahead, Tennis NZ has aspirations to continue growing the EVES Open, attracting even higher-level players and positioning it as a sister event to Auckland’s ASB Classic.
With support from TECT, event partners, the International Tennis Federation, Western Bay of Plenty Tennis Association, Pāpāmoa Tennis Club and sponsors, the EVES Open again remains free to attend this year, offering fans the rare opportunity to witness world-class tennis in a vibrant, family-friendly setting.
