Darwin to Host the 2025 Oceania Cup as International Hockey Returns to the Northern Territory

29 October 2024

Darwin to Host the 2025 Oceania Cup as International Hockey Returns to the Northern Territory

Hockey NT is thrilled to announce that Darwin will proudly host the 2025 Oceania Cup, bringing international hockey back to the Top End for the first time in eight years. In  September 2025, the MWT Hockey Centre will be the stage for the Hockeyroos and Kookaburras as they face off against New Zealand’s Black Sticks, reigniting a fierce rivalry in a best of three Test match series that will determine qualification for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Hockey NT extends its gratitude to the NT Major Events Company, the NT Government, Hockey Australia and The Oceania Hockey Federation for their invaluable support in bringing this prestigious event to Darwin. This collaboration underscores the commitment to growing hockey and providing Territory fans with the chance to witness international-level competition up close.

Hockey NT CEO, Jason Butcher, shared his enthusiasm, “The Oceania Cup being hosted in Darwin is a massive win for hockey in the Northern Territory. The support of this event is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our community and a powerful indicator of the positive direction we’re moving in as a sport. We can’t wait to see the Kookaburras and Hockeyroos inspire the next generation of Territory hockey players on this big stage.”

For local heroes and brothers Leon Hayward, a Territory born Black Stick, and Jeremy Hayward, a Territory raised Kookaburra, the Oceania Cup represents more than just high stakes competition. These siblings, each representing different countries, bring a unique and heartfelt rivalry to the event as they prepare to play on home soil in Darwin. Leon Hayward expressed the personal significance of playing in Darwin, saying, “It would be a really proud moment to be in Darwin, where I’m from, and represent a country I love. An opportunity to play at home which I haven't had representing New Zealand would be one of the best moments I've had in hockey and a major highlight in my career. Territory hockey has had a rough patch since the AHL stopped, but now there’s so much positive momentum building from Hockey NT for the kids here to achieve what I have.”

Jeremy Hayward echoed these sentiments, emphasising the opportunity this event brings for young players, “It’s truly special to bring international hockey home to Darwin. It’s a chance for us to showcase the game at the highest level and inspire young hockey players to chase their dreams. Playing where my career began, in front of family and friends, is an honour I’m really excited about.”

The 2025 Oceania Cup will also strengthen the Territory’s sporting legacy. Major events like this create an invaluable economic boost, drawing spectators from across the country while enriching the local hockey community.

Tickets for the 2025 Oceania Cup will go on sale next year, with all Hockeyroos and Kookaburras matches streamed live and free on 7Plus.