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The 2025 netball season in New Zealand continues to draw strong interest as the ANZ Premiership continues to be the country’s top domestic competition. The season has featured memorable moments, including Mainland Tactix clinching their first ANZ Premiership title, and the introduction of the two-point shot during the final five minutes of each quarter – a new tactical feature promises to make the games more exciting.
Latest Updates
One of the standout pieces of netball news this year is the confirmed signing of Silver Ferns defender Karin Burger with Sunshine Coast Lightning for the 2026 Australian Suncorp Super Netball season. Her departure from the Tactix follows her key role in leading them to their maiden ANZ Premiership title. Burger’s move is part of a broader trend, with several Silver Ferns, including Kelly Jury, Maddy Gordon, Kate Heffernan, and Grace Nweke, set to play in Australia, following recent changes to Netball New Zealand eligibility rules.
International Tournaments
Several key international netball events are either underway or scheduled for 2025. The Netball World Youth Cup will take place in Gibraltar from 19 to 28 September, featuring the world’s best under-21 teams competing through pools and knockout stages. England and Jamaica will face off in the Netball Horizon Series in Kingston and London, part of the build-up to the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Additionally, the ECCB International Netball Series will run from 23 to 30 August in Grenada, gathering Caribbean nations for competition, while the Europe Netball Open in Cardiff and the expanded Celtic Cup at Glasgow’s Emirates Arena provide opportunities for European teams to participate in high-quality matches.
Domestic Leagues
At home, the ANZ Premiership remains New Zealand’s premier domestic competition. The 2025 season began in May and features ten rounds followed by finals in July, showcasing the country’s top teams. The introduction of a two-point shot during the final five minutes of each quarter has influenced team tactics and added excitement for supporters.
Netball New Zealand also runs key domestic events that support player development across age groups. The U18 Championships, held in Auckland’s Waitakere Centre, include both male and female teams, reflecting the growing interest and participation in men’s netball since its introduction in 2023.
Transfers & Rosters
Apart from Burger’s signing with Sunshine Coast Lightning, which strengthens their defensive line alongside players like Ava Black and Courtney Bruce, the 2025 season has seen teams finalising their rosters ahead of domestic and international campaigns. Burger’s move is a highlight of the season, signalling a more fluid player market between New Zealand and Australia.
Rising Stars
Emerging talents are making netball news in New Zealand. Central Manawa, competing in the National Netball League, fields a promising mix of young players and experience. Key names include midcourter Erana Ngarimu, who has stepped up from training partner to the main squad, shooters Phoenix Schwalger and Sarah Guiney, and defender Madison Thomas.
Newcomers such as Kara Adrole, Olivia Dijkstra, Skylah Tainui-Takerei, and Yasmin Mayall are also gaining attention for their performances in regional and age-group competitions, with many seen as future ANZ Premiership and Silver Ferns prospects.
Tactical Insights
The 2025 ANZ Premiership season has brought the new two-point shot allowing teams to take calculated risks in the final minutes of each quarter. Teams have adjusted their offensive and defensive structures, often stretching defences to create shooting opportunities beyond the two-point line.
Mainland Tactix showcased tactical discipline throughout the season, particularly in the grand final against the Northern Mystics. Their defenders, including Karin Burger and Jane Watson, applied intense pressure, causing turnovers that led to fast-break chances. Their structured play and ability to balance defence and attack under pressure proved decisive.
Injuries & Returns
Karin Burger remains fit as she prepares for her move to Sunshine Coast Lightning. On the Australian side, players such as Courtney Bruce have faced injury setbacks, while Cara Koenen missed matches with a foot injury during the 2025 season.
In New Zealand, veteran defender Jane Watson retired at the season’s end, along with Ellie Bird, signalling roster changes for 2026. These departures open opportunities for new players to step into key roles.
Live Streams & Highlights
Fans can watch the 2025 ANZ Premiership games live on TVNZ 2 and stream matches free via TVNZ Plus online. The ANZ Premiership’s YouTube channel – ANZPremiershipTV – also provides highlights, interviews, and select match footage, keeping supporters up to date with key moments and player performances.
FAQs
How can I stay updated with the latest Netball News?
Follow official sources like the ANZ Premiership website and TVNZ platforms for news, match reports, and analysis. You can also subscribe to newsletters, follow netball social media pages, and watch live streams or highlights on NetballPass and the ANZPremiershipTV YouTube channel.
What are the top sources for reliable Netball News coverage?
The ANZ Premiership website and Netball New Zealand’s platform provide accurate news and match updates. TVNZ offers live coverage and expert commentary. Official social media and newsletters also keep fans informed.
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Subscribe on the ANZ Premiership or Netball New Zealand websites to receive newsletters like “Ngā Pitopito Kōrero,” delivering news and updates straight to your inbox most weekdays.
