A Plea to Auckland Tennis Clubs

Tennis in Tonga is slowly rebuilding after the volcanic eruption and tsunami three years ago. Auckland tennis clubs supported the Tongan Tennis community by collecting preloved tennis gear which helped to reignite tennis in the region, especially for youth. The Tonga Tennis Association is now focused on growing tennis, though significant challenges remain.

Every bit of support we can provide really helps as tennis is a sport that offers Tongans year-round physical activity and is culturally inclusive, especially for girls. The Tongan grassroots programs are now reaching children as young as five and tennis is opening doors to national representation in Tonga and scholarships for those that show enthusiasm and promise.

In reality, Tonga’s National Tennis Centre has only four courts and no basic facilities like toilets or showers, making it difficult to host school groups or grow club membership. Equipment is limited, and many players lack even the most essential gear.

We’re inviting clubs in Auckland to join us in a drive to collect pre-loved tennis gear to send to Tonga. If you live in either of these three areas and would like to donate pre-loved items such as rackets, balls, shoes, uniforms and nets here's how. 

Your donation could be the start of a tennis journey for a child in Tonga. Let’s offer Tonga our assistance to make tennis accessible for all.  

Club guide to setting up and managing donating to Tonga 

Contact Ali Telford to collaborate collection. 

Timeline - Club collection November & December.  Point for collection/dropoff - Total Coach, Merton Road and Albany Tennis Centre, Oteha Valley Road.