The Big Barrel Hawks are set to return to Wairoa on March 14th, continuing their commitment to connecting with communities across the Hawke’s Bay region.

Following the strong support shown during previous preseason visits, the Big Barrel Hawks will once again bring National League basketball directly to Wairoa — delivering a free kids clinic and an exciting intersquad matchup as preparations ramp up for the 2026 season.

Basketball participation in Wairoa continues to grow, with strong engagement at grassroots level and a passionate supporter base that regularly travels to Rodney Green Arenas for home games. Recognising that not all fans can make that journey, the Big Barrel Hawks remain committed to bringing professional basketball to the wider region.

“Coming back to Wairoa is something we genuinely look forward to,” says Big Barrel Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny.

“Preseason is about building combinations and preparing for the season ahead, but more importantly it’s about connection. Wairoa is a vital part of our Hawks whānau and these visits allow us to give back, inspire young players and ensure the entire region feels part of this team.” Wairoa District Council Elected Member and Wairoa Community Centre Facility Manager Sara Bird says the visit has a meaningful impact on the local community.

“It’s incredibly positive for our rangatahi to see elite athletes come into Wairoa and invest time in them,” says Bird. “Opportunities like this inspire confidence, promote healthy lifestyles, and show our young people that pathways exist beyond our district. The Big Barrel Hawks visiting Wairoa brings energy, pride and connection to our community.”

Kids Clinic – 12:00pm
Standring Park
A free children’s basketball clinic will take place at Standring Park, beginning at 12:00pm. Delivered by Big Barrel Hawks players and coaching staff, the session will focus on skill development, drills, fun competitions and interactive games.
The clinic provides young players with the opportunity to:

• Learn directly from National League athletes
• Build confidence in a supportive environment
• Meet their favourite Big Barrel Hawks players
• Take photos and collect autographs

Intersquad Game – 2:00pm
Wairoa Community Centre
At 2:00pm, fans will head to the Wairoa Community Centre for a competitive intersquad game, offering the community a free early look at the 2026 Big Barrel Hawks roster.

The preseason clash will showcase new signings and returning players as the squad splits into two teams in a high-energy contest designed to simulate game-day intensity.

Post game will see an opportunity for fans to get signatures, take photos and interact with their favourite players.

These regional preseason visits form part of the Big Barrel Hawks’ long-term commitment to alternating visits between Wairoa and Central Hawke’s Bay, ensuring basketball continues to grow across the entire region.

Community & Partner Acknowledgement The Big Barrel Hawks would like to sincerely thank Wairoa Young Achievers Trust, Wairoa District Council, QRS, Sport Hawke’s Bay, Hawke’s Bay Embroidery & Print, Community Leisure Management and AFFCO for their support in helping make the Wairoa visit possible.

The Big Barrel Hawks also acknowledge all 2026 season partners whose ongoing investment enables the organisation to deliver high-performance basketball and meaningful community engagement initiatives across the region. Their support allows the Big Barrel Hawks to extend their reach beyond Napier and Hastings, ensuring the entire Hawke’s Bay community benefits.

Schedule – Friday 14th March 2026

18 February 2026

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