New Zealand's beach volleyball scene is on the rise as both the men’s and women’s national teams have earned spots at the 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships, set to take place from November 14 to 19 in Adelaide. This event will mark the first time both national teams from New Zealand will compete together at the World Championships.
Historic Milestones
This marks the women's team’s return after more than two decades, while the men’s team is rejoining after a ten-year absence. Their qualification underscores several years of focused development and increasing international competitiveness.
The Role of Empowerment Funding
Since 2019, New Zealand volleyball has benefited from nearly $462,000 USD in support through the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. This funding has led to:
- Strengthened coaching infrastructure
- Established year-round training programs
- Regular participation in international tournaments
- Clear pathways from grassroots to professional levels
One of the most pivotal changes came in 2021 with the hiring of full-time head coach Jason Lochhead, who introduced structured training regimes for both teams.
Team Highlights
In women's competition, Shaunna Polley and Olivia Macdonald earned their place with top performances in tournaments such as the Beach Pro Tour and Asian Tour, including a gold medal win in Xiamen. Their qualification signifies momentum in rebuilding the long-dormant women’s program.
For the men, the duo of Brad Fuller and Ben O’Dea achieved qualification with steady success in both the Asian circuit and Pro Tour Futures events.
Looking Ahead to Adelaide
The 2025 World Championships hold special significance as the first to be held in Oceania, offering New Zealand athletes the advantage of competing on home soil. Matches will be played at The Drive and Pinky Flat venues, with opposing teams including those from the United States, Italy, Canada, Portugal, Cuba, and Benin.
Local Development and Future Prospects
Hosting competitions like the Beach Pro Tour Futures in Mount Maunganui has had a profound impact on the sport’s growth in New Zealand. Benefits include:
- Increased national awareness of beach volleyball
- Enhanced competitive standards
- Improved training facilities
- Stronger development pathways for young athletes
New Zealand’s participation in the upcoming championships is more than a competitive achievement—it represents the culmination of strategic investment, disciplined training, and increased exposure to the global arena. It is a defining moment for the nation's growing influence in international beach volleyball.
