Auckland’s Premier men’s and women’s sides took on the pinnacle of representative bowls at the National Intercentre, held from 12–15 March across the greater Auckland region.

The tournaments included twenty-three centres, with ParaJacks competing for the first time across both men’s and women’s divisions.

Both Auckland sides featured an exciting mix of youth and experience, with seven players under the age of 30 and several debutants including, Zoran Bartulovich, Adam Haywood, Steve Fisher, Hannah Dawson, Jhanna Savov, and Nicole Singer. The men’s side also welcomed back current world number nine Aiden Takarua.

The teams delivered on their promise early, with both sides going unbeaten through section play. Highlights included the women defeating Southland and Canterbury, while the men recorded strong wins over Nelson and Waikato.

Advancing as section winners with a perfect five-from-five record, confidence was high heading into post-section play.

The women crossed the harbour bridge to face Thames Valley at Browns Bay in a gripping quarterfinal encounter. As the sun set on a chilly Saturday evening, the contest came alive. Kimberley Hemingway claimed a 25–20 victory in the Singles, while the Fours fell short, leaving the result resting on the Pairs combination of Linda Ralph and Jhanna Savov.

Trailing by one on the final end, the Auckland pair levelled the match to force an extra end. Despite a superb bowl from Savov, the rub of the green didn’t favour Auckland, with Thames Valley taking the win and ending a promising campaign at the quarterfinal stage.

Meanwhile, the men produced a dominant quarterfinal performance at Howick against local rivals North Harbour. Auckland delivered across all disciplines, with Aiden Takarua winning the Singles 25–13, the Pairs combination of Adam Haywood and Zoran Bartulovich impressing with a 22–5 victory, and the Fours continuing their outstanding form.

Progressing to Finals Day at Howick, the men faced a formidable Canterbury side featuring Lawson, Pascoe, Scott, and the Kelleher brothers. Despite a strong effort, Canterbury proved too good on the day, with Auckland finishing their campaign at the semifinal stage and securing a bronze medal.

While the ultimate prize proved elusive, both teams demonstrated clear progress. Their consistency through section play, combined with the continued development of emerging talent, highlights a promising future and keeps the National Intercentre title firmly within reach.

A huge thank you to all Auckland host clubs: Pt Chevalier, East Tāmaki, Howick, Pakuranga, and Carlton Cornwall for delivering an event the region can be proud of.

Finally, appreciation must go to the team management and support staff, whose ongoing commitment and volunteer efforts continue to underpin the success of the programme.

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