Beach hockey: More teams to stick it on Main Beach

Black Stick Chris Goldsbury dives for the ball during last year's beach hockey competition at Mount Maunganui's Main Beach. Photo / Andrew Warner

The third National Beach Hockey Championships looks set to expand and contract at once on the sands of Mount Maunganui's Main Beach.

The format has been shortened to a one-day event, leading to an increase in the number of registered teams compared to this time last year.

"It has had a positive effect on entry numbers, with five more teams than at the same time last year," said organiser Kate Savory.

"We have a number of teams returning which is testament to how much the participants enjoy it."

Beach hockey is a five-a-side game played inside an inflatable blow up surround.

Players use smaller sticks and the ball is a smaller version of a football, allowing for much more aerial play and juggling.

The game can be played by people of all ages and levels, with no experience or equipment needed.

There is capacity for 16 teams with limited spaces still available.

Mixed teams of at least five players costs $100 to enter and individuals can sign up for $20 and be placed in a team.

The event will run from 10am-7pm at Mount Maunganui's Main Beach on Saturday, January 17, with spot prizes and activities throughout the day.

Those interested should search NZ Beach Hockey on Facebook.