Become an Umpire.
Join the umpiring community and make a meaningful impact on Hockey in the Bay of Plenty region!
Whether you're a passionate player, a Hockey enthusiast, or someone looking to deepen your connection to the game, umpiring offers an exciting opportunity to contribute. Bay of Plenty Hockey Association, in partnership with Hockey New Zealand (HNZ), is committed to recruiting, training, and developing umpires across Rotorua, Taupō, and Whakatāne. With our supportive environment and access to national resources, you'll gain the skills and confidence to officiate at local, regional, and potentially national levels.
Why become an Umpire?
Umpiring isn't just about enforcing rules—it's about being part of the action, building leadership skills, and supporting your community.
Here are some key benefits:
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➜ ENHANCE YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Gain a deeper understanding of hockey rules, strategies, and decision-making through practical experience and HNZ training.
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➜ BE PART OF THE ACTION
Experience the thrill of the game from the whistle-blower's perspective, staying engaged without playing.
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➜ SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
Promote fair play and integrity in matches, helping young players and teams thrive.
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➜ PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Build decision-making, communication, and leadership skills that transfer to everyday life.
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➜ PATHWAY TO ENHANCEMENT
Progress from local games to national tournaments via HNZ's simplified grading system, with opportunities for accreditation and international exposure.
Umpire Opportunities with Bay of Plenty Hockey .
As you develop your skills, Bay of Plenty Hockey Association offers a clear progression pathway to officiate higher-caliber games.
New umpires should start at Sub Association level with Primary and Intermediate Hockey and work your way up:
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➜ BAY OF PLENTY HOCKEY ASSOCIATION SECONDARY SCHOOL COMPETITION
Officiate school matches starting with B & C Grade progressing to A Grade.
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➜ INTERCITY SECONDARY SCHOOL COMPETITION
Further your officiating through Intercity Secondary games featuring 1st XI sides from BOP, Tauranga and Waikato.
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➜ BAYWIDE SENIOR COMPETITION
Introduction to Senior Hockey.
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➜ INTERCITY SENIOR COMPETITION
Premier Hockey across Bay of Plenty, Tauranga and Waikato.
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➜ PATHWAY TO ENHANCEMENT
Progress from local games to national tournaments via HNZ's simplified grading system, with opportunities for accreditation and international exposure.
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➜ REPRESENTATIVE
Beginning with U16 Festivals and progressing to National Tournaments (appointed by HNZ).
Register to be an Umpire .
If you're keen to umpire at any of these levels, complete our Umpire Registration Form to express interest and join our development program.