Youth Voice

The Network

The Network is Tennis New Zealand’s national youth community designed to connect, empower, and elevate the voices of young people across Aotearoa.

At Tennis New Zealand, we believe young people should play an active role in shaping the environments they belong to. When youth perspectives are genuinely included, clubs become more welcoming, vibrant, and connected. Tennis becomes a place where everyone feels they belong.

Why The Network Exists

Young people are key to the future of tennis. Their creativity, lived experiences, and fresh ideas help shape the programmes, spaces, and club culture that make tennis enjoyable for all.

The purpose of The Network is to put youth voice at the centre of tennis; ensuring young people influence the opportunities, decisions, and environments that impact their experience.

When The Network is thriving, tennis in Aotearoa looks and feels different:

Clubs are more inclusive, youth‑friendly, and adaptable.
Programmes and events reflect what young people truly want and need.
Youth feel heard, respected, and connected to their clubs and communities.
Tennis grows stronger, more sustainable, and more engaging for future generations.

By empowering young people to lead and co‑design tennis experiences, The Network strengthens grassroots connections and helps build a dynamic, youth‑driven tennis community.

Enter to Win!

Enter below for your chance to win a $100 Prezzy Card and celebrate the launch of The Network – Tennis New Zealand’s youth community, empowering young people across Aotearoa to have a voice in the game.

Share your ideas, influence change, and help shape better club experiences.

Entries open on Monday 18th May and close on Sunday 31st of May

You must be aged between 12-25 to enter.

Enter Here!

How We Work Together

The Three Layers of the Network

The Network is made up of three connected layers that work together to strengthen youth voice across the country:

Tennis New Zealand

Facilitates the nationally led group, provides guidance and resources, and supports clubs and regions to strengthen youth engagement and participation.

Contributors

Formerly known as the Tennis NZ Youth Advisory Group, these young leaders are directly connected with Tennis NZ and their local communities.
They champion youth voice within clubs, regions, and tennis environments. ensuring young perspectives are heard, understood, and represented in decision‑making.

Local Drivers

Young people who influence change at the community level.
They may be club committee members, youth tennis leaders, coaches, or players who work directly with their clubs to improve local experiences and lead youth‑centred initiatives.

Together, these layers build a strong, connected system that supports young people to lead, shape, and grow our game.

Useful Resources

Youth Support Hub

Lead the Future of Tennis

This guide is for young people who want to have a voice in shaping tennis in Aotearoa. The Network is your space to speak up, get involved, and help create the kind of tennis experience you want to see.

When youth voices are heard and valued, tennis becomes more fun, welcoming, and meaningful. This guide will help you connect with your local club, share your ideas, and influence real change in your community.

Discover how to confidently speak to your club and share what would improve your experience.

Your Voice Starts Here

Club Support Hub

Engaging and Empowering Your Young Members

This guide is for clubs that want to strengthen youth engagement and create environments where young people feel valued. Young members bring energy, ideas, and a fresh perspective. When their voices are heard, the whole club benefits.

Learn how to create meaningful opportunities for youth to contribute, respond to their feedback, and build a club culture they’re proud to be part of.

Read the Youth Engagement Guide

Youth-Led Impact Stories

University of Auckland Tennis Club

The University of Auckland Tennis Club has created a thriving, welcoming community, with over 250 members in 2026. With a high percentage of members being new to the game, there was a clear demand for a fun, low-pressure alternative to traditional competition. In response, the club has developed an approach centred on social, accessible play that makes it easy for anyone to get involved.

What They Offer

The club provides regular, inclusive opportunities for students to play:

Two sessions per week at Parnell and Nicholson Park
One tournament per semester
Popular Friday night sessions that attract large student crowds
Courts organised by ability (e.g. beginner, intermediate, advanced) to ensure players feel comfortable and supported
Rackets provided to reduce barriers for new players

Student-Led Success

Run primarily by students, the club manages everything from weekly sessions to tournaments and communications. A strong social media presence keeps members informed and continues to attract new players.

Building Community

The club experience goes beyond the court. Social events such as pub quizzes help members connect and build lasting connection, while initiatives like One Point Slam, women’s-only Paint & Sip events, and social pickleball tournaments keep things fresh and engaging, with a touch of friendly competition.

To support new players, the club also runs beginner-focused coaching sessions at the start of each semester, making it easier for those new to tennis to get involved.

Impact

The University of Auckland Tennis Club has created an affordable and inclusive space where students can enjoy tennis in a way that suits them. By removing barriers and prioritising a social, welcoming environment, the club continues to grow a vibrant, student-led community both on and off the court.

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