Tauranga’s newest sports facility is set to host its first national tournament, with the Foot Locker Under 20 Basketball Nationals to take place over King’s Birthday weekend, from 30 May to 2 June 2025, at the University of Waikato Haumaru Sport and Recreation Centre.
The former site of The Warehouse on Cameron Road was purchased by Tauranga City Council in early 2024 and has been converted into a multi-purpose sport and recreation centre featuring indoor sports courts.
Supported by Tauranga City Council through the Tauranga Event Fund, this Basketball New Zealand tournament gives representative-level players a final chance to compete at age-group level on the national stage. It brings together young talent from across the country – including Kiwis returning from overseas – and is free for the public to attend.
Bethlehem Ward Councillor, Kevin Schuler, who helped officially open Haumaru earlier this month, says the tournament is a great opportunity for the city and community.
“We’re proud to support the U20 National Basketball event through the Tauranga Event Fund. National sporting events like this strengthen our community by providing opportunities for connection, participation, and inspiration, especially for our younger generations,” said Cr Schuler.
“Basketball continues to grow rapidly in Aotearoa, and hosting this national competition shows we’re serious about being a city that supports youth development.
“Hosting national sporting events such as this also attracts visitors and wider economic benefits for Tauranga and helps raise our profile as a great host city – so it’s a win-win for everyone.
“This new facility right in the heart of Tauranga is already proving its worth by being able to host this event and sets the stage for an exciting long weekend of sport. It really is going to be something special.
“We also encourage visitors who are here for the event to take time to enjoy everything our city has to offer.”
Mark Rogers, General Manager of Tauranga City Basketball, says demand for court space has surged alongside the sport’s popularity.
“We’ve seen huge growth over the past decade. Numbers grew steadily until 2023, when a lack of space began to hold us back. The addition of the Haumaru facility to the Council-owned network will open the door for further growth in the coming years,” he said.
Stu Stevenson, Head of Sport and Fitness at Bay Venues, says the tournament is a fitting way to mark the opening of the new facility.
“We are excited to be hosting the Foot Locker U20 Nationals basketball tournament at the newly opened centre. This event is particularly special for us as it will be the first tournament held at Haumaru. We look forward to welcoming some of the best young basketball players from across the country and providing them with a new venue to showcase their skills,” he said.
Event details:
What: Foot Locker U20 Basketball Nationals
When: Friday, 30 May – Monday, 2 June 2025 (King’s Birthday weekend)
Where: University of Waikato, Haumaru Sport and Recreation Centre
Cost: Free entry.
