Mar Christchurch & Invercargill set to host thrilling Secondary Schools South Island Water Polo Championships
Mar New Zealand men set to take on Australia in Oceania Qualifier for 2025 World Aquatics Championships
2025 Water Polo New Zealand Awards a celebration of excellence and growth
On Saturday evening, the Water Polo New Zealand Awards took place in Auckland, honouring the outstanding athletes, coaches, teams, referees, and volunteers who continue to strive for excellence each and every day. The event was a celebration of dedication, passion, and hard work, reflecting the continued growth and success of water polo in New Zealand. With a full house of supporters, family, and friends, the awards evening not only highlighted the achievements of our community but also showcased the strength and unity of the water polo across the country.
As we reflect on the remarkable performances and contributions over the past year, it’s time to celebrate the winners who truly exemplify the spirit of water polo. Below, we unveil those recognised for their exceptional efforts both in and out of the pool.
Thank you to our award sponsors for making these 2025 Water Polo New Zealand Awards possible!
Congratulations to all our award winners...
Life Membership
Deb Bowry (Canterbury Water Polo)
James Ross (Manawatu Water Polo)
Distinguished Service Award
Angie Winstanley-Smith (Atlantis City Water Polo)
Service Award
Eelco Uri
Volunteer of the Year - presented by Delfina Sport
Matthew Pickering (Tairawhiti Water Polo)
Referee of the Year - presented by The Stream Shop
Ben Watkinson (Waitakere Water Polo)
Rookie Coach of the Year - presented by Trophy Specialists & Engraving
Bailee Swindells (Marist Water Polo)
Coach of the Year - presented by Benefitz
Angie Winstanley-Smith (Atlantis City Water Polo)
Player (Female) of the Year - presented by Suzuki NZ
Morgan McDowall (Atlantis City Water Polo)
Player (Male) of the Year – presented by The Tindall Foundation
Liam Dodunski (Marist Water Polo)
Team (Female) of the Year - presented by Premium Real Estate
Sea Wolf U18 Women (Sea Wolf Water Polo)
Team (Male) of the Year - presented by The Tindall Foundation
Tauranga Men's National League Team (Tauranga Water Polo)
Fair Play Award - presented by Flight Centre
Olivia Shine (North Harbour Water Polo)
Outstanding Flippa Ball School - presented by AUT Millennium
Bethlehem College (Tauranga)
Club of the Year – presented by kap7
Sea Wolf Water Polo
