The OBIBC was one of the Settlers’ Hall’s first Hirers of the newly completed Large Hall in 1975 – and – the Club is still going strong today!

Indoor Bowls is a game that can be enjoyed at any age and experience level. While it’s not a really energetic game, IB can help improve fitness, posture, flexibility and balance as well as hand-eye coordination. IB is not only fun, it offers many health and social benefits, plus you will meet new people of all ages enjoying themselves. There is also quite a bit of walking involved – and – it’s a good work out for your arms too. It’s also a good way for people of all ages to develop their skills, coordination and fitness.

As rolling the Bowl with the goal of getting it as close to the Jack as possible requires hand-eye coordination and concentration. The more you play, the better these will become.

The OBIBC has developed a great social element among its Members along with a strong sense of Community – playing Indoor Bowls is a fun way to meet new people and make friends. The sport is suitable for people of all ages and abilities – including those who are partially sighted or in a wheelchair.

One of the best things about Indoor Bowls is the fact you can learn to play within minutes. While it is a game of skill and tactics, it’s also refreshingly simple. Once you’ve picked up the rules you will be on your way to becoming one of the OBIBC’s legends.

Annually the OBIBC takes an active part in the Zespri AIMS Games Tournament at Mt Maunganui (usually in September). This is one of Australasia’s largest junior sporting events. Celebrating diversity, the Games provides an opportunity for adolescents from all demographics and education contexts to compete in sporting competitions, to meet others from outside their normal peer group, and to learn and build on their social interaction skills. The Zespri AIMS Games is highly regarded by national education and sporting organisations and is considered a leader in its area.  

Since its inception in 2004, the Zespri AIMS Games have grown from 760 competitors representing 17 schools and four sporting codes, to the 2022 tournament which had 10,842 competitors, representing 323 schools and 23 sporting codes. It is remarkable to see a concept that Tauranga locals had, evolve into an event that in 2019 had 2.3% more athletes than the 2016 Rio Olympics.

If you would like to take up Indoor Bowls; or return to playing; or would just like to part of a fun (but competitive) social group – come along and join us at the Settlers’ Hall:

• On Mondays at 1 PM or
• Tuesdays at 6.30 PM
• Contact Ruth Hamilton 571 1564 for information
• First session free, then $3.00 per session
• Wear smooth soled shoes
• Equipment provided
• Play between March and November each year
• New Members welcome – come and have a go – whether you are a beginner or an experienced player

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