Hockey New Zealand is pleased to announce the next chapter of the Summer of Hockey, with the Vantage Black Sticks Men hosting Korea, Japan and Malaysia in a Four Nations tournament at the Gallagher Hockey Center in Hamilton from January 30 to February 3, 2026. In partnership with Hamilton City, we are bringing this exciting new event and world-class international hockey to the Waikato region.
Following the extensive Women’s Five Nations Tournament in Dunedin featuring the Vantage Black Sticks, Korea, Japan, the United States and India, the Summer of Hockey continues to bring international action to New Zealand, strengthening global partnerships and giving fans the opportunity to experience top hockey on home turf.
The Hamilton Four Nations will feature eight matches over four days, with each team playing each other before a final day of play-offs (3v4 and 1v2). With three match days, two matches per day and a standalone final day, the tournament promises fast, competitive and energetic hockey from start to finish.
Vantage Black Sticks men’s head coach Greg Nicol says the Four Nations is an important stepping stone in their World Cup campaign, “This tournament gives us exactly the kind of competition we need early this year. By playing Korea, Japan and Malaysia at home, we can test our depth, hone our playing style and continue to build a competitive program towards the 2026 World Cup. The opportunity to play in front of our fans again is something the team is really looking forward to.”
This event marks the first time the Vantage Black Sticks Men have played at home since the 2023 Oceania Cup in Whangārei, and expectations are high following their recent success at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, where they secured bronze with a dominant victory over hosts Malaysia. With Malaysia returning for this series, Hamilton fans can expect a fierce battle as both teams look to assert themselves early in the 2026 season.
Hockey NZ CEO Michelle Hollands says hosting both national teams on home soil to open the year is an important moment for the sport, “Starting 2026 with both Vantage Black Sticks teams playing in Aotearoa is a fantastic way to engage fans and showcase international hockey at home. These tournaments provide a strong foundation as they build towards the World Cup, and we are committed to taking supporters along on that journey.”
Competition schedule:
Friday January 30
4:30 PM: Japan vs. Korea
6.30pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs Malaysia
Saturday January 31
4.30pm: Malaysia vs Japan
6.30pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs Malaysia
Monday February 2
4.30pm: Malaysia vs Korea
6.30pm: Vantage Black Sticks vs Malaysia
Tuesday February 3, Summer Hockey Final
4:30 PM: 3rd place vs. 4th place
6:30 PM: 1st place vs. 2nd place
CLICK HERE to buy tickets NOW.
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