In 1909 the Havelock North Sports Association acquired 8 acres of Lucknow Estate for use as a recreation area.  This was ploughed and sown to be used for rugby and cricket.  Also preparation of a portion to use as a bowling green was one of the first things to receive attention.  This did not eventuate and in 1916 the present site in Porter Drive was sold to the club by J H Joll at 8% interest. A croquet, tennis and bowling club was established and the first committee set up.
Several types of grass were trialled over the years - Brown Top and Chewings, Dicondra, Mazus and Cotula.  Water had to be drawn from Lucknow Road Creek to keep the greens watered.  Members used pitchforks to aerate as mechanical machines did not go deep enough.
In 1944 the Havelock North Ladies Bowling Club was established.  Uniform consisted of white frocks to be worn at a certain length and was measured regularly.  No colour or jewellery was allowed and very strict etiquette practised on and off the greens.  No mixed play was allowed and the ladies managed their own club activities and competitions.
In 1963 at the AGM it was passed that men could wear shorts.
1966 saw one green laid with cotula.  60 bags of cotula sods were sourced from the South Island at a cost of 93 pounds two shillings and sixpence. New club rooms were discussed in 1970 and in 1972 the clubroom was extended.  More lockers and a bar area were added and an additional 8 feet to the Ladies Lounge.
In 1973 a water diviner discovered a water supply near the grrens and a well was sunk.  A Special AGM was held to discuss the building of a new pavillion and the first pour of foundation took place in 1977.
Astrograss was introduced in 1986 and 40 club members assisted the contractor dig drains and lay the carpet.  Havelock North was the first club in Hawke's Bay to have astrograss greens. This was replaced in 1997/98.  Today we have two world standard Dale carpet greens.
In 1999 the Ladies and Mens Clubs amalgamated and a new club uniform presented. It was an interesting and challenging time for our club as we took a more modern approach to the game.
Havelock North Bowling Club has hosted the Astrograss National Winter Bowls and NZ Blind Bowls competitions.  In February each year 32 local businesses participate in the Business House Competition which is held over six weeks.  The friendly rivalry between the locals helps to bring our community together on the greens.
The club has a membership of 198 (156 Playing) and is in the top 4% in NZ with similar numbers.  We can also claim to have the longest continuous playing record of all Havelock North sporting teams dating back to 1904.
The future - Havelock North Bowling Club is a vibrant, friendly club and very much part of the community.  We are fortunate to have the support of local businesses and are working with schools to promote and encourage young people to play bowls. We look forward to the future and thank all those from the past who have made our club so succesful today.
We welcome new members, visitors and spectators - bowls and free coaching available, Contact Dave Palmer Ph.8768638
compiled by Robyn Phillips 2010