Inline Hockey New Zealand (IHNZ) is dedicated to growing and supporting the hockey community across the country. A critical part of this mission is securing rink time for regular, scheduled events that benefit all players, clubs, and the broader hockey community.
To achieve this, IHNZ has introduced a right of first refusal clause in its Club Standards Framework. This clause ensures that IHNZ can plan events well in advance, without interference or complications, so that we can "make hockey happen."
If you want to be part of the IHNZ community, it’s because you want hockey to happen—and that means working with IHNZ to ensure its ability to deliver regular events for everyone.
The Club Standards Framework Consultation Process
IHNZ made every effort to ensure the Club Standards Framework was developed with input from a broad range of stakeholders. Invitations to consult on the framework were extended to the following clubs: Auckland Orcas, Christchurch Lions, Hamilton Devils, Kapiti Rangers, Mount Mustangs, Mount Wellington Panthers, Nelson Whalers, and Rimutaka Renegades.
IHNZ would particularly like to recognize the Auckland Orcas, the Mount Mustangs and the Nelson Whalers for their efforts and valuable contributions throughout the consultation process. Their constructive feedback and willingness to engage played a significant role in shaping the final document.
During the consultation period, the document was also shared with the New Plymouth Ravens, as well as several other groups. The New Plymouth Ravens provided valuable feedback that helped us refine the section about club names.
This collaborative approach aimed to create a framework that benefits all clubs while ensuring IHNZ can effectively deliver events and grow the sport across New Zealand.
We appreciate the support of the clubs who chose to be constructive participants in the consultation process. Many changes were adopted to reflect the diverse needs and perspectives of those constructive participants.
Will There Be Changes or Further Consultations?
Everything can always be improved. As IHNZ explained to all the clubs who came to the consultation meeting, this is just the starting point. The Board is committed to inviting all clubs that successfully complete their 2025 re-affiliation by January 17, 2025, to provide feedback and participate in a consultation process that will help us improve the re-affiliation standards for 2026. That consultation will be scheduled to take place after the commencement of the 2025 season.
Why This Clause Exists
In 2024, a club ignored repeated attempts by IHNZ to book rink time for a number of events. The club's lack of communication didn’t just disrupt planning for that specific club—it had ripple effects and stymied IHNZ’s efforts to make hockey happen for the entire hockey community.
Without the ability to secure facilities, IHNZ faced challenges in organizing events that support:
The growth of hockey in New Zealand.
Opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to compete.
A shared experience that brings the hockey community together.
IHNZ’s responsibility is to serve the whole community, not just one club. This clause ensures that clubs work collaboratively with IHNZ to avoid situations like this in the future.
How Does the Clause Work?
The process is straightforward and operates months before the year even begins:
Deadline to Notify IHNZ:
By October 1, 5:00 PM, of the current year, clubs must notify IHNZ of any potential third-party bookings for the following calendar year.
IHNZ’s Response Time:
IHNZ has 5 days to confirm if they wish to reserve the date(s).
What Happens After October 1?
From October 2 onwards, clubs can freely book their facilities without notifying IHNZ or waiting for a response.
Non-Cancellable Bookings:
Once IHNZ confirms a booking under this clause, it cannot cancel the booking. This ensures financial security for the club.
Examples of How This Works
When the Clause Applies:
In August 2024, Metallica asks about booking your rink for a concert on March 15, 2025.
You notify IHNZ of this date before October 1, 2024, 5:00 PM.
IHNZ has 5 days to decide if it wants to book the date.
When the Clause Does Not Apply:
It’s November 2024, and a dance competition asks about using your rink for May 3, 2025.
Because it’s after October 1, you can finalize the booking immediately. There is no need to tell IHNZ anything.
What This Clause Does for Everyone:
Ensures IHNZ Can “Make Hockey Happen”:
Securing rink time early allows IHNZ to plan and deliver high-quality events that grow the sport, create opportunities for players, and strengthen the hockey community nationwide.
Requires Clear Communication Between Clubs and IHNZ:
This clause ensures that IHNZ-affiliated clubs actually communicate with IHNZ. Ignoring or delaying responses to IHNZ inquiries can disrupt planning, not just for the club but for the entire hockey community. This clause prevents such issues and fosters collaboration.
Protects Clubs Financially:
Once IHNZ confirms a booking, it is non-cancellable. This provides financial certainty for clubs, knowing that their venue will be used as planned without last-minute changes.
Benefits the Whole Community:
IHNZ events are organized for the good of all clubs and players, not just individual facilities. By working together, we ensure that everyone has the chance to participate in and enjoy hockey.
This clause is a straightforward way to support better planning, stronger communication, and a thriving hockey environment for everyone involved.
What This Clause Doesn’t Do
This clause is not about taking over club facilities. It only applies months in advance.
It doesn’t limit a club’s ability to make money – if anything, it guarantees income when it is invoked.
The Bottom Line
If your club is part of IHNZ, it’s because you believe in supporting hockey in New Zealand. Working together through this clause ensures that IHNZ can keep delivering the events and experiences that help hockey thrive—not just for one club, but for everyone.
For questions or further clarification, please contact us at gm@inlinehockeynz.org.nz
Contact Information
Inline Hockey New Zealand
PO Box 14055
Panmure 1741
Auckland,
New Zealand
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