The Centre Pairs delivered another strong weekend of competition, showcasing quality bowls, resilient combinations and a few unexpected scorelines across the region. Despite some rain-related reshuffling, qualifying wrapped up, and attention now turns to the business end of the tournament. The women are set for the semi-finals, while the men head into a compelling and surprising quarter-final bracket.

Women’s Event – Semi-Finalists Locked In

The women’s draw has held form in places while also revealing several standout performers, from rising talent to seasoned campaigners.

Semi Finalists

• Gloria Teinaki’s move to Howick has already proven fruitful. Partnering 1-5 rep Dana Taylor, the pair impressed through post-section with composed, convincing performances against quality opposition.
• Last year’s finalists, Linda Ralph & Jo Cheng, are back in the mix and determined to go one better. Ralph’s calm, clinical style will be pivotal as they meet Teinaki’s more creative approach.
• Catherine Bien and Angela Longney are carrying strong form from the fours to find themselves in the semis. Both are putting in double duty with the fours final & the final rounds in pairs scheduled on the same day.
• Robyn Reihana and Marion Hakaraia rattled the defending champions in the round of 16, winning 18-14. 1-5s, Pedro and Tomai (Ōtāhuhu Railway) upset Wendy Jensen and Jenni Hart 20-9 before falling victim to Reihana and Hakaraia in a similar fashion 23-8 in the quarters.

Men’s Event – Quarter-Final Line-Up

The men’s field remains wide open, with several heavyweight pairings still in contention alongside the odd surprise breakthroughs who have taken their opportunities well.

Quarter Finalists
Ivan Arnerich has turned heads with a composed, steady approach and constant draw play, toppling Brendan Kelly, Steve Ramsey, Neville Hill and Don Faifua along the way. Harrison & Kirwan continue their reputation for deep centre-event runs, with Harrison already owning three centre titles.

The match to watch will undoubtedly be that of Cottrell and Grantham. This match is set to be an exhibition and is definitely one to take the time to watch.

• Match 1: Arnerich & Dye (Henderson) vs Hurren & Savage (Howick)
• Match 2: Harrison & Kirwan (Balmoral) vs Ball & Stanaway (Carlton Cornwall)
• Match 3: Cottrell & Haywood (Auckland) vs Granthan& Bartulovich (Mt Albert)
• Match 4: Galloway & S. Fisher (Royal Oak) vs Reed & Campbell (Pt Chevalier)

Good luck, everyone. We look forward to following your progress at the Centre Finals this Saturday.