Pakuranga Croquet Club hosts NZ v Rest of world

The Rest of the World was made up of members who were born anywhere other than New Zealand and their flags flew proudly.

The internationals got one up on the Kiwis winning the day 11-7.

The game has its origins in 14th-century France, where peasants used shepherd’s crooks to hit balls through hoops fashioned from willow branches. A British toymaker in Ireland saw the game’s potential after seeing it being played in the 1600s and manufactured equipment acting as the catalyst for the development of the modern game.

Traditionally seen as a game for those enjoying their golden years, the sport now also attracts those from the younger age bracket and the world golf croquet championship featured New Zealand players ranging from 18 to 30, and a 14-year-old played in one of the club’s tournaments during the regular season. 

Not to be outdone by the youngsters, the event also featured 95-year-old Helen Hopkins who completed two full games.

The club, which is situated in Lloyd Elsmore currently has around 50 members and they are looking to boost playing numbers, especially with younger people who might not know much about the game. 

A fast-paced and abridged version of the historical format known as Golf Croquet is now played predominantly at Pakuranga. Catering to the time-poor, games typically last 45 minutes.

The club’s Cheryl Winsor said croquet is a great way to meet up with friends and enjoy a exciting and challenging sport;

“The game is full of surprises, and battles of skill, tactics and strategy. Above all it is fun and the club is a truly great social venue with play at least five days a week.” 

Spring sees the start of Twilight golf croquet which starts at 4 pm on a Thursday, and Winsor said the club is hoping to see new members.

“We would welcome anyone to come and give the game a go most of us that play feel we wish we had started earlier at a young age.”

The club provides mallets for newcomers to come and give the game a try, and those interested are free to visit the club and meet members on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday mornings from 8-30am.