Kia ora koutou,

As we head into the start of the 2026 season, we’re excited to welcome all teams to Grading Days at Whangārei Netball Centre.

Please find below all the key information to help you prepare, this has been sent to key contact of the clubs and schools in sporty, we ask that you share this information with all coaches, managers and teams:

Grading Dates

• Thursday 30 April 2026, Saturday 2 May & Saturday 9 May 2026. 
• Please note: FutureFERNS, Premier, College Premier and Premier 2 will receive as separate email.  

Game Format

• Games will be 12-minute halves, 2-minute halftime break, 6 minutes between rounds

We are aiming for 2 games per team per day, however, some Saturday teams may have 3 games during the second week of grading. Please check the draw carefully.

Umpires

• All teams must provide their own umpires for grading games
• Please ensure your umpire is available and ready for each scheduled game

Points System (All Grades)

• Win: 4 points
• Draw: 2 points
• Loss within 3 goals: 1 point

Scoring

• All teams must have the MyNetballManager App downloaded prior to grading
• Each team must have their scoring code ready
• Scorers must stand together while scoring and agree and submit the final score.

Important Reminders

• All teams must check in at Control prior to each of their games
• No day registrations permitted during grading
• No tactical changes are allowed during grading
• We are unable to honour team clashes during grading
• Player registrations close 30 April 2026 – please ensure all players are registered on time.
• Please ensure you have read the Information Booklet prior to grading to meet all requirements
• The Regulations have been updated in line with the Constitution and the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 – please ensure you have read and understood these.

Seating Update

We have recently tidied our bench seating for the benefit of the teams:

• Blue benches: Teams
• Brown benches: Supporters

Please do not move the benches so we can keep the space safe and organised for everyone.

Parking

• There is no parking available at the Centre
• Parking is available at:
  • Gravel carpark (corner of Kensington Ave & Park Ave)
  • Kennington Ave
  • Lupton Avenue

Additional Information

• Grading is designed to place teams in the most appropriate and competitive grade for the season
• Draws will be released prior to grading—please keep an eye on our website and social media channels

Thank you for your support and cooperation as we kick off the season. We’re looking forward to some great netball and seeing all teams out on court.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch - operation@whangareinetball.co.nz. 

Ngā mihi,
Whangārei Netball Centre