Wellington Hockey Association is excited to introduce a new representative opportunity for emerging athletes with the launch of the U16 National Hockey Tournament pathway for 2026.

The new tournament creates an exciting performance opportunity for players aged 14 or under 16 as of 1 January 2026, providing a chance to compete on the national stage and continue progressing through Wellington Hockey’s player development pathway.

Selected Wellington teams will travel to compete at the inaugural tournaments from 3–5 October, with the boys’ tournament taking place in Auckland and the girls’ tournament hosted in Christchurch.

The selection process will be comprehensive, giving athletes multiple opportunities to showcase their abilities across all aspects of the modern game. Trials will include fitness testing, skill-based activities, small-sided games, and full-field match play.

Trial Dates

• Trial 1: Sunday 21 June — 9:30am–11:30am

• Trial 2: Sunday 28 June — 9:30am–11:30am

• Trial 3: Wednesday 1 July — TBC

• Trial 4: Wednesday 22 July — TBC (Invite-only extended squad session)

Please note that all trials are to be held at the National Hockey Stadium.

Players wishing to trial can register via PlayHQ.

Parents and Whānau Information Session

An online information session for parents and whānau will be held on 8 June 2026 at 6:00pm. The session, led by the Performance and Pathways Manager, will cover the introduction of the U16 National Tournament and the wider opportunities available for Under 16 athletes within Wellington Hockey’s development pathway.

Families interested in attending can request a meeting invite by completing this online form. An email with the online meeting link will be sent closer to the information session.

Other U16 Developement Opportunities

Wellington Hockey also recognises that every athlete develops at their own pace. Players who are not yet ready for this level, or who miss selection, will continue to have strong development opportunities available through the U16 In-Season Development Programme, including further coaching and the opportunity to attend a Lower North Island tournament in Palmerston North.

This new programme reflects Wellington Hockey’s continued commitment to building depth, supporting athlete growth, and creating meaningful representative experiences at every stage of the player pathway.