Nelson Netball’s NBS premier competition tipped off on Thursday night, with plenty of intrigue surrounding the new-look field.
Last year’s finalists Nayland College chose not to enter the premier grade in 2026 after losing their entire starting seven from a momentous 2025 season. Prices Mā have stepped into the void, joining Prices Ahurei, Stoke NBS, Richmond F45, Jacks OPD and Nelson College for Girls.
One round is a small sample size, but Thursday night’s opening three matches suggested the gap between the competition’s haves and have-nots has narrowed significantly.
Richmond F45 43 – Prices Mā 28
The newest entrant to the premier ranks stayed in the contest until the final whistle, but Richmond F45’s experience and midcourt punch proved decisive in a deserved 15-goal win.
Sisters Courtney and Georgia Lott controlled the midcourt battle throughout, delivering quality ball into the circle for Richmond’s shooters. Belinda Koloamatangi was accurate as ever and quick to punish any Prices Mā errors.
To their credit, Prices Mā did not look out of place in the premier ranks. Their attacking end showed plenty of promise, and once they tidy up unforced errors through the court, they will be looking to do far more than making up the numbers.
Jacks OPD 68 – Stoke NBS 40
Jacks OPD have once again started the season in ominous fashion, effectively ending their clash with Stoke NBS by halftime.
The attacking pairing of Chloe Webb and Harriet Ogilvie were electric in the circle, creating space and converting with deadly accuracy to open up a 34–17 lead at the main break.
The margin allowed Jacks to tinker with combinations in the second half, with coach Robyn Leonard gaining valuable insight for later in the season.
Stoke were admirable in defeat and showed a flow and pace that was missing in 2025. New captain Kate Gilmer was outstanding in the circle, and the 40 goals scored will give Stoke plenty of encouragement for what lies ahead.
Prices Ahurei 62 – Nelson College for Girls 56
The match of the round lived up to its billing, with Prices Ahurei doing just enough to hold off a spirited Nelson College for Girls outfit.
Featuring several new signings, including three from last year’s standout Nayland College team, Prices Ahurei took time to settle and only edged in front as the first-quarter siren sounded.
There were flashes of brilliance from the team in black, with twins Brooklyn and Jayden Leary showing why they are so highly rated.
There was also much to like in Nelson College for Girls’ performance. Goal attack Ivy Trench looked composed on debut, while goal keep Ruby Maxwell formed an impressive defensive pairing with Abi Day.
Nelson College for Girls will be building towards another strong season as they prepare for the South Island Secondary Schools’ Championships, which are being held in Nelson later this year.
