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New players

Your first session starts here

We run sessions specifically for new players, with equipment provided and experienced members on hand to teach you the basics.

New pickleball players

What is pickleball?

A fun, social sport that's easy to learn

Pickleball is a paddle sport played on a court about the size of a badminton court. It uses a low net and a light plastic ball. Rounds are short, rallies are friendly, and the rules are simple enough to pick up in your first session.

  • Easy to learn — most people are rallying within 30 minutes
  • Low-impact and gentle on joints
  • Played as singles or doubles
  • Great for all ages, fitness levels and abilities

No previous experience required

Most of our members started exactly where you are. Our Monday beginners and coaching session is designed for first-timers, and our regular social sessions welcome new players alongside experienced ones.

  • Coaching Available

    Our Monday beginners session covers rules, scoring and basic strokes with friendly, patient coaching.

  • Want to level up faster?

    Contact one of our local coaches: Next Level Pickleball, Beginner/Intermediate Level, Chris Kinman - 021 0287 1727 - PCI Certified Pickleball Coach - @NextLevelPickleballNZ | Intermediate/Advanced Lessons - Shaun Tamai - 022 183 9091

  • Equipment provided

    Paddles and balls are available to borrow, so you can try pickleball before buying any gear. After about three sessions, please consider buying your own gear. There is a local pickleball company who would love to take care of you!

  • Welcoming atmosphere

    Members rotate partners during social play, so no one sits out for long and newcomers mix right in.

What to bring

  • Comfortable clothes and clean court shoes
  • A water bottle
  • A willingness to have fun — paddles are optional

What to expect

  • A quick welcome and court rules briefing
  • Warm-up drills and coached tips at beginner sessions
  • Friendly games with rotating partners
  • Someone nearby to answer questions at any time

Find a session that suits you

Look for sessions marked Beginner, Beginner / Intermediate or All Levels. These are the easiest entry points. If you're unsure, the Monday beginners and coaching session is the safest first choice.

  • Monday

    Next Gen/Jnr Pickleball (8-16yrs)

    Skill level: BeginnerRotorua Pickleball Club

    NEXT GENERATION – Junior Social & Round Robin Mondays 4:00–5:25pm (excluding public & school holidays) Tiny Toes & Beginners: coaching, skill development, games and weekly round robin play, building confidence, teamwork and sportsmanship. $5 non-members | $3 members New players welcome. Equipment provided.

  • Monday

    Rally Builders & Court Crushers (17+ yrs)

    Skill level: BeginnerRotorua Pickleball Club

    MONDAY SOCIAL PLAY 5:30–7:15pm Rally Builders – Courts 1–3 For players building confidence, consistency and skills in a supportive environment. Court Crushers – Courts 4–6 For faster rallies, tactical play and more competitive games. Formats rotate through King of the Court, Round Robin, Set Partners and other fun variations. Numbers may be limited for selected sessions. Enjoy more evenly matched games, improve your play and have fun.

  • Thursday

    Thursday Social Pickleball

    Skill level: All LevelsRotorua Pickleball Club

    SOCIAL ROUND ROBIN – CAPPED AT 30 PLAYERS 10:00am–12:00pm | Courts open 9:30am Friendly 12-minute doubles round robin with rotating partners. Scores are not recorded, keeping play moving and the atmosphere relaxed and social.

  • Sunday

    Sunday Performance Social

    Skill level: All LevelsRotorua Pickleball Club

    For players who know the rules, can rally consistently and want competitive, supportive play while developing their game. Formats rotate between King of the Court, Round Robin and Fixed Doubles, giving you a mix of partners, opponents and match situations. Last Sunday of every month: King of the Court — capped at 24 players. Bring water and your game face. Ideal for players wanting to improve, gain a DUPR rating, or progress toward the Monday/Thursday 7:15pm Performance Groups. Arrive 9:30am | Play starts 10:00am. Book ahead as numbers are limited.

Still have questions?

We know trying a new sport can feel daunting. Send us a message and a club member will get back to you with honest, helpful advice.

Contact us

Ready to join us on court?

Membership gives you cheaper session fees, priority event entries and a say in how the club runs.