Fast Format. 1–5 AC Fours. Two Days. $5,000 Prize Pool.
A brand-new flagship event is set to join the Bowls Auckland calendar, giving bowlers from across New Zealand the opportunity to compete in a fast-paced, high-quality tournament designed exclusively for 1–5 Year players.
The inaugural Flett Open will be played on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November 2026 and is open to eligible players from any Bowls New Zealand-affiliated club. With all teams guaranteed to participate in two days of competition and covered greens available if required, entrants can register with confidence knowing they will enjoy a complete weekend of bowls regardless of results.
Honouring a visionary of the game
The tournament proudly honours J.N.S. “John” Flett OBE, an influential figure in New Zealand bowls.
A Bowls New Zealand Hall of Fame inductee, Life Member of both Bowls Auckland and Bowls New Zealand, Past President, national champion and highly respected administrator, Flett played a significant role in shaping the future of the sport through his commitment to coaching and player development.
Widely regarded as the father of junior bowls in New Zealand, he recognised that emerging players needed more than coaching alone – they needed meaningful competitive opportunities and clear pathways for progression. He was instrumental in introducing the junior grade for players in their first five years of the game and championed development programmes that helped nurture future champions.
The Flett Open continues that vision, providing today’s developing bowlers with a tournament worthy of their ambition and a platform to test themselves against the best emerging talent from around the country.
What to expect
The Flett Open has been designed to deliver exciting, competitive bowls while ensuring every team remains engaged throughout the weekend.
- Any Combination Fours
- Two bowls per player
- 10 ends per game
- 1 hour 50 minute time limit
- Re-spot the jack
- Four rounds of section play
- Four championship divisions
- Limited to 64 teams
- $5,000 prize pool
Following four rounds of section play on Saturday, teams will be ranked and progress into one of four divisions based on their results.
Division One will determine the inaugural Flett Open Champions, with first-round losers continuing into the Plate competition. Divisions Two, Three and Four will each play for their division bragging rights and prize money, ensuring every team has meaningful matches and something to play for throughout the weekend.
It’s a format designed to keep the competition close, rewarding and enjoyable, from the opening round right through to the final end.
Entries now open
Gather your teammates and join the inaugural Flett Open.
- Dates: Saturday 21 – Sunday 22 November 2026
- Location: Auckland
- Entry Fee: $200 per team
- Eligibility: 1–5 Year players from the same club
- Field Size: Limited to 64 teams
- Entries Open: Thursday 30 July 2026
- Entries Close: Sunday 1 November 2026 (or earlier if the field is full)
The Flett Open is more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of emerging talent and a fitting tribute to one of New Zealand’s greatest contributors to bowls. Secure your place and be part of the inaugural event.