Hockey New Zealand wants to launch a home and away franchise league in 2024.
The national governing body needs private investment for its Premier Hockey League, which will run alongside men’s and women’s competitions.
There will be four franchises initially, said Hockey NZ. Teams will include New Zealand and overseas players.
It said that investment had been rubber-stamped for one franchise, with the PHL targeting north of the Bombays, the central and Lower North Island and the South Island.
Hockey New Zealand chief executive Anthony Crummy said the PHL was an “exciting product which will see our players enjoy consistent, elite level competition at home.”
He added: “The League will prioritise a fan-first approach, showcasing elite-level, athletic and entertaining hockey, driving new investment into hockey and elevating our sport to new heights.”
Hockey Players Association executive manager Glen Sulzberger said the PHL would improve “the foundation of high performance outcomes for New Zealand’s top hockey players”.
“Our members welcome the prospect for players to enhance their experience and skills with more elite-level domestic hockey, and believe a strong domestic league is integral to building player depth across the country.”
Hockey NZ wants to launch the near two month event in November 2024.
