Northern Mystics

The Northern Mystics Netball team is one of the five teams that are a part of the ANZ Premiership, New Zealand’s elite netball league. They were formerly featured in the ANZ Championship before it was discontinued in 2016. The team was formed in 2007 as a merging of two previous rival teams (Northern Force and Auckland Diamonds) who had previously competed in the National Bank Cup.

The team is based in Auckland but also includes the Northland region. The team made their debut at the AMZ Championship in 2008 and later participated in the ANZ Premiership which was formed as a merger between the National Bank Cup and the ANZ Championship. The Northern Mystics were one of the original teams in the ANZ Premiership, along with the Central Pulse, Canterbury Tactix, Southern Steel, and Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic.

For a comprehensive guide to netball in New Zealand, visit netballwiki.nz.

History in the ANZ Championship

The Northern Mystics netball team played in the ANZ Championship between the years 2008 and 2016. They made their debut on April 6^th, 2008, in a game against the Canterbury Tactix at The Trusts Arena, but unfortunately lost the game 44-48.

2011

In 2011, the Northern Mystics were led by head coach Debbie Fuller and captain Temepara George, both of whom played crucial roles in guiding the team through one of their most successful campaigns in the ANZ Championship. The team had a strong regular season, finishing fourth overall, just behind the Queensland Firebirds, Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic, and New South Wales Swifts. A highlight of the season came in Round 9, when the Mystics secured their first-ever win on Australian soil, defeating the West Coast Fever 56–54 in a thrilling match that demonstrated their growing confidence and cohesion.

In the finals series, the Mystics displayed resilience and skill, beating the Swifts in the minor semi-final and then taking down the Magic in the preliminary final, securing their spot in the grand final for the first time in franchise history. Although they ultimately lost to an undefeated Queensland Firebirds side in the final, the Mystics’ performance throughout the season earned them second place overall—a significant achievement and a signal of their rising dominance in the league.

2012

Building on their momentum, the 2012 season saw the Mystics finish second on the table after another strong regular season performance. They continued to be a force to reckon with, showcasing consistency and innovation in their gameplay. One of the standout moments of the year—and of netball history—came during Round 8 against the Melbourne Vixens, when the Mystics introduced the now-famous Harrison Hoist. This innovative defensive tactic involved Anna Harrison being lifted by teammates Kayla Cullen and Jessica Moulds in a style reminiscent of a rugby union lineout. Harrison made multiple vital intercepts in the final quarter, blocking key goal attempts by the Vixens’ shooter, Karyn Howarth, and helping the Mystics clinch a narrow 49–45 win.

Despite finishing the regular season in a strong position, the Mystics stumbled in the finals. They lost the major semi-final to the Vixens and were eliminated in the preliminary final by the Magic, finishing the season in third place overall. However, the 2012 season was notable not just for their results but for their strategic innovation, which left a lasting impact on the sport.

2015

By 2015, the Northern Mystics continued to prove themselves as a dominant team in the ANZ Championship. They enjoyed an impressive regular season, going undefeated against fellow New Zealand teams and finishing at the top of the New Zealand Conference. Their depth, experience, and synergy were key factors in their success, and they looked poised to make a serious run for the title.

However, the finals series proved challenging once again. The Mystics were narrowly defeated by the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic in the New Zealand Conference Final, and their championship hopes were dashed after a loss to the Queensland Firebirds in the semi-final. While they were unable to reach the grand final, the 2015 Mystics showcased the team’s growth, strategic acumen, and ability to perform consistently at a high level. Their strong performance in the conference stage highlighted the strength of the franchise and solidified their reputation as one of the most competitive sides in the league.

Notable players

Overall, the Northern Mystics netball team has had many talented players over the years, each contributing to the team’s success and legacy.

Temepara George

Temepara George captained the team in 2011 when they reached their first grand finale. Having demonstrated exceptional skill and performance in her netball career, George has garnered widespread recognition as one of the most remarkable players to ever grace the court.

Maria Tutaia

Maria Tutaia played for the Mystics from 2008 to 2012 and then again in 2017. Tutaia’s exceptional talent as a shooter is highly recognised in the netball world, with her remarkable accuracy and impressive long-range shooting skills making her one of the most formidable players on the court.

Kayla Cullen

Kayla Cullen is another player who has had a significant impact on the Northern Mystics. She joined the team in 2010 as a young defender and quickly became a fan favourite with her athleticism and energy on the court. Cullen has represented New Zealand in both netball and rugby sevens and has won multiple ANZ Championship titles with the Mystics and the New South Wales Swifts.

Anna Harrison

Anna Harrison is another player who has made her mark on the Mystics. Harrison played for the team from 2008 to 2012, returning after some time to play for the team again from 2017-2018. Harrison is known for her versatility and athleticism, having played multiple positions on the court throughout her career. She is also the creator of the “Harrison Hoist,” a unique defensive tactic where her teammates lift her up in the air to block shots from opposing players.

Innovation and Advocacy

What sets the Northern Mystics apart is their reputation for innovation in the world of netball. As one of New Zealand’s premier netball franchises, the Mystics have become known for pushing the boundaries of traditional play, introducing fresh, dynamic tactics that have influenced how the game is played both domestically and internationally. They were among the first teams to successfully implement a zone defence system—now a key strategy in high-level netball—and are celebrated for their fast-paced attacking style that puts pressure on opponents and keeps fans on the edge of their seats. This adaptability and creative approach make the Mystics a formidable force on the court.

Beyond their on-court achievements, the Northern Mystics are strong advocates for women’s empowerment in sport. They actively promote gender equality, not just through their play, but through off-court leadership and community involvement. The team supports initiatives that uplift women and girls, encouraging participation in sports and fostering confidence, leadership, and resilience. They are also involved in programs that advocate for greater representation of women in sports governance and leadership roles, helping to shape a more inclusive future for all athletes.

Looking ahead, the Northern Mystics are poised to build on their legacy of success and innovation. With a strong squad, a passionate fan base, and a forward-thinking approach, they aim to continue dominating the ANZ Premiership and make a lasting impact on the wider netball community. Their commitment to excellence, development, and equality ensures they will remain not just contenders, but trailblazers in the evolution of netball in New Zealand and beyond.