Packaworld helps make NZ's first ever ocean water polo event possible

Some of New Zealand’s top water polo players plunged into Tauranga Harbour over the weekend for New Zealand’s first festival of ocean-based water polo.

The two-day Water Polo on the Waterfront event was played in full view of The Strand hospitality district, attracting thousands of spectators who enjoyed a weekend of water polo, music and delicious delicacies offered by on-site food stalls.

Event organiser Danny Kayes said the event saw 12 teams from around New Zealand competing in a five-a-side tournament played with eight-minute halves rather than the eight-minute quarters seen in conventional water polo.

“We wanted to create a fast-paced festival atmosphere that was fun and accessible, similar to that of Rugby 7s. The stormy conditions over the weekend made things challenging, but it made for good watching regardless.”

After two days of intense action, Marist Sharks from Auckland came out on top, claiming the John Hayes Cup winner's trophy with a victory over runners up Waikatere Lobsters, also from Auckland.

The tournament was played on a unique 18 metre by 13 metre inflatable water polo field combined with professional-quality Water Polo Packagoals provided by New Zealand portable sports gear supplier Packaworld International.

“We needed equipment that was easy to transport and that would work well in the conditions. The Packaworld goals can be pumped up quickly and are easy to set up and anchor. They play an important role in making this event possible,” Mr Kayes said.
Packaworld Chief Executive Peter Roberts said he was proud to support such an outstanding event.

“Ocean water polo is becoming a real poster-child for the sport, and our portable goals and fields are a perfect fit. We’ve been big supporters of the Beach Polo Fours format in Australia and it’s wonderful to be able to play a role in bringing the game to New Zealand.”

Packaworld’s professional water polo goals are three metres wide by 90 centimetres tall. They float on the water, are easy to anchor, and can be deflated and packed down into a small bag for easy transportation and storage when not in use.

Packaworld also supplies portable water polo fields ranging in size from 15 metres by 10 metres, at the smaller end of the spectrum, to 30 metres by 20 metres, for larger games.

VIDEO: Water Polo on the Waterfront - One News