How Do I Play Pickleball?
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A Guide for Pickleball Beginners in New Zealand
Pickleball is taking off across New Zealand, with new courts, clubs, and players popping up everywhere from Auckland to Invercargill. It’s fun, easy to learn, and a great way to stay active while meeting people.
If you’re new to the sport and wondering how to play pickleball, this simple guide will help you get started.
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. You play on a small court with a solid paddle and a perforated plastic ball. You can play singles or doubles, but doubles is the most common and social format in New Zealand clubs.
What You Need to Get Started
To begin playing pickleball, you only need a few pieces of equipment:
- A pickleball paddle
- A set of pickleballs
- A net (many NZ parks and sports centres already have courts set up)
- Access to a marked pickleball court or a tennis court with temporary lines
Many pickleball players start with a basic pickleball set that includes a portable net, paddles and balls all in one bundle (click here to shop the best pickleball sets in NZ).
Pickleball Basic Rules
Serving
The serve is underhand and must be hit below the waist. You serve diagonally into the opposite service box. You get only one serve attempt unless the ball touches the net and lands in (a let).
The Two-Bounce Rule
After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side before players can start volleying. This keeps rallies long and fair.
The Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen)
The area near the net is called the kitchen. Players can step into it only after the ball bounces. You cannot volley (hit the ball out of the air) while standing in the kitchen.
Scoring
Games are normally played to 11 points, win by 2. Only the serving team can score. When calling the score, say server’s score, receiver’s score, then either 1 or 2 depending on whether you are the first or second server on your team.
Where to Play Pickleball in New Zealand
Pickleball courts and clubs are rapidly popping up across the country. You’ll find active communities in Auckland, Rotorua, Tauranga, Hawkes Bay, Wellington, Christchurch, Wanaka, Queenstown, and many smaller towns.
Many leisure centres and school gyms offer casual sessions where beginners are welcome to turn up and give it a try.
Basic Strategy Tips
- Focus on control rather than power
- Keep shots low to make it harder for opponents to attack
- If you’re playing doubles, move together as a team
- Learn soft shots like dinks and drop shots as you improve
Why Do Kiwis Love Pickleball
Pickleball is social, fast-paced, and suitable for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity, a way to stay active, or a competitive new sport, pickleball has something for everyone. The welcoming New Zealand pickleball community also makes it easy for beginners to join in.
Ready to Start Playing Pickleball?
If you’re just getting into the sport, an pickleball set is a simple way to get everything you need. From beginner paddles to competition-quality pickleball nets and quality pickleballs, you’ll find gear suitable for every level of play right here on the Titan Sports NZ website.
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