The Waikato / Bay of Plenty Judo Association hosted the Judo NZ North Island Championships, a significant milestone in the sport’s growth in the region. With the support of Rotorua Trust, the 2024 tournament showcased a diverse range of talent, featuring participants from various age groups and gender categories. From junior boys and girls aged 7-10 to veteran competitors aged 60-69, the event demonstrated the inclusivity and vibrancy of the judo community.
Rotorua has become a popular destination for judo tournaments due to its central location and the high-quality events organized by the Waikato Bays Judo Association. The championships not only provided a platform for athletes to compete but also brought substantial benefits to the local community. Families and players visiting Rotorua contributed to the local economy by booking accommodation, dining at restaurants, and exploring local attractions.
The event commenced on Friday afternoon with a half-day pack-in to set up two full competition mat areas spanning 364 square meters. These areas were equipped with electronic scoring and recording devices, as well as player control areas. A team of approximately 25 volunteers diligently operated the tournament, handling various tasks such as player control, refereeing, scoring, and event management.
Over the past decade, the association has experienced steady growth in membership, with over 500 members across 10 clubs in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.
