Flippa Ball splashes into action for the first time at the Kawakawa Community Pool this Sunday.
Organisers are hopeful the game will ride a wave of popularity once it is established in Northland.
Northland area manager Desire? Prendergast says the game is the junior version of waterpolo but differs from the adult
game in two main ways.
"The main difference is that you're allowed to touch the bottom of the pool, so the kids don't need to swim to be able to play," she said.
"The other main difference is that it's non-contact, water polo has a reputation for being a little aggressive, but this is relatively injury-free."
One of the main benefits for all participants is that the sport promotes water competence while the players have fun competing.
Flippa Ball's introduction at the Kawakawa pool this weekend is to help raise awareness of the game in Northland, so a competition can be established later in the year.
Ms Prendergast says they plan to include three age-group divisions for schools and clubs to enter teams into the primary and intermediate competition.
"In term four, we hope to have the competition up and running in Kawakawa and Whangarei and, as the outdoor pools start getting used, we would hope other centres will follow," she said.
Ms Prendergast said it could be difficult to get pool time in other regions, but so far that had not been a problem in Northland.
"The pool providers I've spoken to have been keen to get another aquatic-based activity into their pool and that's good for everyone."
Ms Prendergast said there had been a fairly slow response from schools in the region so far.
However, there were still plenty of opportunities for local league co-ordinators to get started.
This Sunday morning is being treated as an exhibition day with coaching sessions for all those interested in joining in.
The Kawakawa pool is located in the Bay of Islands College's grounds.
• For more information, email www.waterpolo.arc.nz or ring the Kawakawa pool on 09 4040127.
