Taupo-nui-a-Tia’s year 9/10 underwater hockey team didn’t just compete in the junior open grade at the Northern Zone Cup — they made history doing it, school colours and all.
Over the weekend of 12–14 June, Taupo-nui-a-Tia made history when its first ever underwater hockey team suited up at West Wave Pool and Leisure Centre in Auckland for the Northern Zone Secondary Schools Cup. Competing in the junior open grade, this wasn’t just any group of year 9/10 students — from the moment they arrived, they brought the energy. Snorkels painted in school colours, nails done to match, and an attitude to go with it.
Led by captain Caleb, the squad played five round robin games against some strong sides, finishing as 4th seed and earning their place in the finals. They then went the distance in two more knockout matches, including a fiercely contested bronze medal game against Mount Maunganui — seven games in total over the weekend. The versatility of the squad shone through, with several players stepping up to cover multiple positions across the tournament. Fourth place overall in the junior open grade — on debut — is a result to be incredibly proud of.
Teams they faced were:
Glendowie
Howick/Botony Downs
Mahurangi
Mount Albert
Mount Maunganui
And the best news of all? They’ve qualified for Nationals. The New Zealand Secondary Schools Championships head to Rotorua in September 2026, and our team will be right there in the mix.
Victoria took home the tournament MVP award — a fantastic recognition for a player who was outstanding all weekend.
This spirited, colourful, history-making bunch have set the bar high for underwater hockey at our College. Congratulations to every single one of them!
THE SQUAD
Caleb (C) Centre | Axel (VC) Goal | Victoria MVP Wing | Emma Forward / Centre |
Finley Forward | Peter Forward | Johan Wing / Goal | Bianca Forward |
Leon Wing / Goal | Juno Wing | Josh Wing |
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Want to give it a go? Taupo Underwater Hockey Club meets every Monday during school terms, 5:30pm–6:30pm. All welcome — no experience needed. Come along and see what it’s all about! |
