The GJ Gardner Homes New Zealand Beach Tour returns in 2026, bringing together the country’s next generation of talent, passionate volleyball communities, established national athletes, and international appearances across four major tour stops.

Running from late January through to March, the 2026 tour will travel the length of Aotearoa, delivering high-quality beach volleyball competition in iconic locations and culminating in the New Zealand Open.

Tour Stops & Event Information

Lake Karapiro

The opening event of the 2026 tour will be held at Lake Karapiro, set against one of New Zealand’s most scenic sporting backdrops.

• Competition Dates: Friday 30 January – Sunday 1 February 2026

• Location: Mighty River Domain, Lake Karapiro

• Entries Close: Friday 16 January 2026

Auckland

The second stop heads north to Auckland, hosted at the Harbour Beach Centre in Mairangi Bay.

• Competition Dates: Friday 13 – Sunday 15 February 2026

• Location: Harbour Beach Centre, Mairangi Bay

• Entries Close: Friday 30 January 2026

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Christchurch

Christchurch will host the third leg of the tour, bringing elite beach volleyball action to the South Island.

• Competition Dates: Friday 20 – Sunday 22 February 2026

• Location: Pioneer Stadium, Christchurch

• Entries Close: Friday 6 February 2026

New Zealand Open (Previously Finals)

The tour will conclude at Mount Maunganui Main Beach with the New Zealand Open — the pinnacle event of the 2026 season.

• Competition Dates: Friday 6 – Sunday 8 March 2026

• Location: Mount Maunganui Main Beach, Tauranga

• Entries Close: Friday 20 February 2026

Key Entry Information

Entries for all four tour stops opened on 24 September 2025. Athletes are encouraged to enter early to secure their place and assist with event planning and seeding.

The GJ Gardner Homes New Zealand Beach Tour continues to play a vital role in athlete development, offering meaningful competitive opportunities for emerging players while showcasing the depth of talent across Aotearoa. With strong community support, high-performance pathways, and a growing national audience, the 2026 tour promises another standout summer of beach volleyball.

Registration Links Here 

https://www.volleyballnz.org.nz/beach/senior-beach-events/g.j.-gardner-homes-nz-beach-tour

Article added: Thursday 08 January 2026