FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions | 2026/27 Track & Field Season
NEW TO THE CLUB? Come along and give athletics a go. One trial night is available before registering, and no previous athletics experience is needed.
Do we just turn up?
Yes. If you are new to Takapuna Athletics, you are welcome to come along for one trial club night before registering. Arrive a little before your age group’s start time and introduce yourself when you arrive. We’ll help point you in the right direction.
Can my child have a trial before we register?
Yes. New athletes are welcome to have one trial club night before signing up. It is a great way to experience a Wednesday night, meet the club and see whether athletics is right for your child.
What ages do you cater for?
We cater for athletes from Tiny Tots from 3 years of age through to junior, senior and masters athletes. Our programmes are designed to suit different ages and abilities, from children learning the basics of running, jumping and throwing through to experienced competitive athletes.
How do I know what grade my child is?
Your child’s grade is based on their age at 31 December of that year. For the 2026/27 season, use their age on 31 December 2026. For example, a child who turns 8 at any time during 2026 is Grade 8.
What are Tiny Tots?
Tiny Tots is our introduction to athletics for our youngest members. The focus is on fun, movement and confidence, using age-appropriate activities that introduce the fundamentals of running, jumping and throwing. Children do not need any previous athletics experience.
When are club nights?
Club nights are held every Wednesday evening at Onewa Domain, 2 Akoranga Drive, Northcote. For the 2026/27 season, club nights run from 21 October to 9 December 2026, then resume from 20 January through March 2027.
What time does my child start?
Current start times are: ages 3–7 at 5:15pm, ages 8–13 at 5:30pm, and ages 14+ at 6:15pm. We recommend arriving a little early so athletes are ready when their programme begins.
How long is the athletics season?
The summer Track & Field season runs from late October through to the end of March, with a break over Christmas and New Year. Annual registration also covers the club’s winter harrier season.
What happens on a Wednesday club night?
Each age group follows a structured programme of track and field events. Depending on age, this can include sprint and distance races, long jump, high jump, triple jump, shot put, discus and other age-appropriate events. Check the Programme 1 and Programme 2 schedules to see what your grade is doing and when.
Is coaching available?
Yes. Takapuna Athletics provides coaching support through Athletics New Zealand accredited coaches and experienced community coaches. Coaching covers areas including sprints, hurdles, throws, jumps and middle- and long-distance running. Specialist training opportunities may vary by age, ability, goals and coach availability. Monday night coaching/trainings are for all levels of athletes wanting extra coaching. Monday evenings at 5.15pm to 6.30pm, starting 2nd November 2026.
Does my child need athletics experience?
No. We welcome beginners through to experienced competitive athletes. Club nights are about having fun, developing skills, building fitness, making friends and giving athletes the opportunity to improve their personal bests.
Do parents need to stay?
For younger athletes, yes. Members under 14 must have a parent, guardian or caregiver present at club activities. Parent and guardian involvement also helps our Wednesday nights run safely and smoothly. Families may be asked to help on a rotational basis with marshalling, measuring, recording results, basic skills support or equipment. No previous athletics experience is required.
What should my child wear for their trial?
Comfortable clothing and suitable running shoes are fine for a trial night. Once registered, members are required to wear the official Takapuna Athletics Club singlet with navy blue or black shorts at club nights and competitions, with uniform required by the third club night.
Does my child need running spikes?
No. You do not need to buy spikes to try athletics. Under the club rules, spikes may only be worn during competition by athletes in Grades 10–14 and by Senior and Masters athletes, and must be removed after each event.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If a Wednesday club night is cancelled because of unfavourable weather, an update will be posted on the Takapuna Athletics website and Facebook at 4:00pm on Wednesday. Saver Days may be used to reschedule the planned programme.
Does my child have to compete at other events?
No. Athletes join for different reasons. Some enjoy Wednesday club nights, learning new skills and improving personal bests; others choose to compete at interclub, Auckland or national events. There are opportunities for athletes who want to take competition further.