Media Release

Fresh from the successful opening of the Bay of Islands hockey turf this month, the recently revived Bay of Islands Hockey Association is now looking to establish an honours board to commemorate outstanding Far North players.

Club President Darryl Meehan says the association wants to hear from anyone who played for New Zealand or Northland so their contribution to the sport can be acknowledged for future generations.

“The Far North has been home to some outstanding hockey players throughout the years and Kaikohe’s own Peter Byers immediately springs to mind as one of the first names for the new board,” he said. “He played for New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games in 1964 and there will be many who remember his commitment to hockey.”

Mr Meehan said there was an excellent turnout for the astroturf opening at Kaikohe’s Lindvart Park and lots of positive feedback about the facility on the day.

“We are looking forward to an exciting hockey future in the Far North district and we want to acknowledge all those, especially the Far North District Council, who have helped get this project off the ground,” he said.

Deputy Mayor Sally Macauley and hockey supporter Cr Laurie Byers officiated on the day, after a blessing of the site by local kaumatua, and Mr Meehan accepted a $5,000 donation from the Northland Goldie Oldies to support junior hockey in the district.

Junior players, past players and Kaikohe fire brigade members then played hockey on the new turf, giving the thumbs up to the new grounds.

A Seniors tournament will be held at the Bay of Islands hockey turf on May 17.

Anyone who can assist with names for the new honours board is asked to contact Bay of Islands Hockey Association President Darryl Meehan at (09) 401 9534 after-hours.

For further information please contact:-

Go to top

Page created/updated: 28 April, 2008

• Media Release index

• Public Notices