Funsticks

Introduction to hockey for years 1 & 2. This programme is spread over multiple HUBs across the Wellington Region allowing kids access to get into the sport.

Little Sticks, Big Fun

Funsticks will see a new focus on individuals foundational movement and motor skill development, helping build a young persons physical literacy preparing them for a life of sport. The programme will be based on the Hockey NZ module, with adjustments made to increase the individual development focus.

This programme is designed for children, aged 5-6 years (years 1 & 2), who are ‘new players’ or relatively new to the game of hockey. As its name implies its key objectives are to provide the participants with:

An introduction to hockey with an emphasis on being a fun experience
An opportunity to develop fundamental skills – running, dodging, striking
An opportunity for the players to learn by self exploring
A positive and quality coaching environment
Full involvement for all participants
Regular changes of activities to maintain enthusiasm and interest
A safe environment for any activities
To provide equipment (sticks, balls, cones, bibs, goals) to minimise cost for caregivers

Fun Sticks Information

Term 2 Fun Sticks

Fun Sticks is an 8-week hockey programme that is run during Term 2. The programme will be offered across five HUBs in the Wellington Region in Term 2. Depending on your location, the sessions will be on either Saturday morning or mid-week. Click on the relevant location below for more information about each HUB.

Term 3 Fun Sticks

Our Fun Sticks programme for Year 1 & 2 players returns in Term 3 for 6-weeks, running from 15 July to 23 August. In Term 3, we’re excited to have all five of our Fun Sticks hubs back on board – so families can choose the location that suits them best! The main focus will be on increasing game play opportunities, helping tamariki build confidence and better understand how the game of hockey works — all in a fun, supportive environment.

In 2025, Funsticks sessions held at Eldson Park are run on Saturday mornings from 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM delivered by WHA accredited coaches.
In 2025, Funsticks sessions held at Fraser Park are run in partnership with Hutt United Hockey Club on Saturday mornings from 8:00 AM - 8:45AM.
In 2025, Funsticks sessions held at Maidstone Park are run in partnership with Upper Hutt Hockey Club. Sessions are on Wednesday afternoons from 4:00 PM - 4:45 PM alongside their junior training sessions.
In 2025, Funsticks sessions held at the National Hockey Stadium are run on Saturday mornings at 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM by WHA accredited coaches.
In 2025, Funsticks sessions held in Karori / Kelburn area are run at Kelburn Normal School Turf delivered by WHA accredited coaches. These sessions are on Tuesday afternoons after school at 4:00 PM to 4:45 PM.

Cancellation

In the event that a Fun Sticks session is cancelled due to adverse weather, it will be up to the Fun Sticks location Coach/Coordinator if a catch-up session is held.

Registration

Registrations for Fun Sticks in Term 2 for 2025 will be opening on Monday 10 March, 2025. There will be 8 sessions in Term 2 starting from 3 May and running until 28 June (no session during Kings Birthday).

Registrations for Fun Sticks in Term 3 for 2025 will be opening on Monday 26 March, 2025. There will be 6 sessions in Term 3 starting from 15 July to 23 August.

If you have any questions surrounding Funsticks, please reach out to Kelly at kelly@wellingtonhockey.org.nz