Netball Waikato Bay of Plenty Zone welcomed key personnel from across the region to the Sir Don Rowlands Centre in Karāpiro on Sunday 29 March for the 13th Netball WBOP Zone Annual General Meeting, and Get Sorted for the Season Hui.

The day began with a pōwhiri, setting a meaningful and inclusive platform as Centre representatives, Life Members, Board Members and guests gathered to reflect on the past year and look ahead to 2026 and beyond.

The AGM covered key governance items, including the adoption of the 2025 Annual Report and Financial Statements, presentation of the 2026 budget, a constitutional remit, and the announcement and election of new Netball WNOP Zone Board Members - a significant milestone in returning to independant gvernance after being undet the administration of Netball NZ since 2020.

A highlight of the AGM was the presentation of service and special awards, recognising the outstanding contribution of volunteers and leaders who continue to give generously to netball across the Waikato Bay of Plenty. Netball WBOP Zone Service Awards were presented to Allisa Hall, Clare Frankhouser, Margaret Webby, Nicola Compton and Sue Bruce, with Sue Bruce also receiving a Netball New Zealand Service Award. Special acknowledgements were made for national honours, including recognition of Shirley Hooper ONZM and Marjorie Carr for their service to netball and the community.

Following the AGM, attendees were invited to stay for morning tea, guest speakers, and the Get Sorted for the Season Hui, which provided valuable insights and inspiration ahead of the upcoming season.

AVIS Magic Head Coach Mary‑Jane Araroa, alongside Magic Commercial Manager and Netball New Zealand Life Member Sheryl Dawson, shared updates on the Magic season and the continued connection between the elite and community game. This was followed by an engaging session on wellbeing and avoiding burnout, featuring World Netball Vice President Shirley Hooper ONZM and former Silver Fern and Magic captain Sam Winders, who spoke openly about balancing high performance with personal wellbeing.

Before breaking for lunch, attendees valued a Netball New Zealand update from Interim CEO Jane Patterson ONZM and NNZ Board Chair Matt Whineray, providing acknowlegdement of learnings from 2025 and clarity around the direction and priorities for Netball NZ moving forward.

After lunch, Centre personnel moved into breakout groups to share tools, templates and resources with their counterparts from other Centres and prepare for the season ahead.

Netball WBOP Zone would like to thank all Centres, members, speakers and guests for their attendance and contribution to a positive and forward‑looking day. Events like these reinforce the strength of our netball community and ensure we are well prepared, connected and energised for the season ahead.

Article added: Monday 13 April 2026
Article by: Leigh Ashton, Netball WBOP Zone Relationship Manager