Bowls coaches support players to develop their skills, understanding, and enjoyment of the game. Coaches work across all levels of the sport—from introducing new players at the club level through to supporting athletes in competitive and high-performance environments.
Coaching is about more than technique. It's about communication, encouragement, and helping players reach their potential in a positive and inclusive environment.
Many coaches begin as players, parents, or volunteers who enjoy helping others learn and improve. Whether you're looking to coach socially at your local club or develop your skills further over time, there's a clear and flexible pathway available.
Coaching opportunities exist across:
Bowls New Zealand supports coaches through a structured coaching framework that aligns with national standards while allowing flexibility at a local level.
As a coach, you can expect:
Clear development pathways
Recognised coaching courses
Practical, sport-specific learning
Ongoing support and resources
You can progress at your own pace, choosing how far you'd like to take your coaching journey.
If you're getting started or want to understand how coaching progresses, explore the full coaching pathway.
You can begin at a foundation level and build your skills over time, with support from Bowls New Zealand and the wider community.
The Bowls New Zealand coaching pathway provides a clear progression for coaches at all levels—from community coaching through to performance environments.
You can enter the pathway at a level that suits your experience and interests, and progress at your own pace as your skills and confidence grow.
Coaching supports player development across the sport and connects closely with both community participation and high-performance environments.
At its core, the pathway focuses on:
Developing quality coaches
Supporting positive player experience
Creating consistency across the sport
Providing opportunities for progression
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Now that you understand the pathway, take the next step by exploring available coaching courses.
From introductory community coaching through to performance environments, each course is nationally recognised and delivered with flexibility in mind, allowing coaches to learn and progress and their own pace.
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Coaching courses are delivered across New Zealand, with options available in different regions throughout the year. Course availability may vary depending on location and demand.
At its core, the pathway focuses on:
Developing quality coaches
Supporting positive player experience
Creating consistency across the sport
Providing opportunities for progression
For upcoming course dates or to register your interest, please get in touch.
5 hours
$50.00 NZD
Designed for those new to coaching or supporting players at a club or community level.
This course focuses on:
Basic coaching principles
Communication & engagement
Creating positive learning environments
Supporting player enjoyment and participation
This is the recommended starting point for anyone considering a coaching role.
12 hours
$100.00 NZD
Suited to coaches who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take a more active role in player and team development.
This course focuses on:
Coaching decision-making
Developing player skills & understanding
Planning & delivering effective coaching sessions
Coaching within competitive environment
50 hours
$400.00 NZD
Designed for coaches working with athletes and teams in competitive and performance-focused environments.
This course focuses on:
Advanced coaching techniques
Performance planning
Supporting athlete development over time
Coaching in high-performance contexts
Looking for more support? Browse resources to help you along your coaching journey.
These resources are designed to help coaches build confidence, improve their understanding of bowls, and support positive player experiences—whether you're new to coaching or developing your skills over time.
The Better Bowler series covers key areas of coaching and player development. These videos can be accessed at any time and revisited as needed.
Available topics include:
Support is also available through Bowls New Zealand and the wider bowls community.
Return to the overview to revisit the coaching pathway or explore your next step.
105A Jervois Road, Herne Bay
Auckland, New Zealand
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