Located in the beautiful town of Matamata, New Zealand, the Matamata Croquet Club has established itself as a top destination for croquet enthusiasts. With a rich history dating back to 1922, the club recently celebrated its centenary, delayed by the global pandemic. Today, the club focuses primarily on Golf Croquet, a popular variant of the sport.
The official season for the Matamata Croquet Club starts in September and runs until April, but members enjoy playing throughout the year, weather permitting. The club boasts well-drained lawns that can accommodate play even during inclement weather conditions. The club attracts a diverse group of players, including both male and female participants of varying skill levels. Many members actively participate in tournaments held within Matamata as well as in neighbouring clubs located in the Waikato, King Country, and the Western Bay of Plenty regions.
The Matamata Croquet Club takes immense pride in its exceptional facilities, which are widely regarded as some of the best in New Zealand. As a testament to its standing, the club is entrusted with hosting national and international croquet contests on behalf of Croquet NZ. Moreover, the Waikato-King Country Croquet Association often organises tournaments at the club's top-tier facilities. These events showcase the skill and competitiveness of the club's talented members.
Membership at the Matamata Croquet Club is highly sought after, with the recent decision to cap the number of players. However, opportunities for new members have opened up due to existing members moving away or for other reasons. To apply for membership, individuals need to be sponsored by a committee member and have a club member second their application. Prospective members also have the chance to gauge their interest in the sport by participating in three introductory sessions using club equipment.
Upon deciding to proceed, applicants can then apply for full membership, with reduced fees if joining mid-season.
For individuals who work full-time, the club offers a Saturday membership option, allowing them to play at 2:00 pm each Saturday. These members are eligible to compete in tournaments alongside other club members. To encourage interaction between Saturday members and regular club members, the club has initiated monthly Sunday sessions for the remainder of the current year.
Matamata Croquet Club is conveniently located at Pohlen Park, accessible from Smith Street. The club provides an official parking area near the Headon Stadium at the end of Western Street, where members can park before being transported to the club.
For more information about club days, upcoming tournaments, and joining the club, interested individuals can visit the club's website or reach out to the club secretary. The website also features a gallery showcasing memorable moments and events at the Matamata Croquet Club.
With its rich history, outstanding facilities, and welcoming community, the Matamata Croquet Club offers an ideal setting for enthusiasts to enjoy the sport of croquet in the heart of Matamata.