On any given Tuesday or Thursday morning in Tauranga, the sound of shuttlecocks flicking across courts is accompanied by laughter, encouragement, and the easy camaraderie of a club that has quietly become a cornerstone of community life.

The Tauranga Morning Badminton Club, now based at the University of Waikato’s Haumaru Sport and Recreation Centre on Cameron Rd, is more than just a place to play sport. For its members, it’s a social hub, a fitness outlet, and, for many, an extended family.

Club president Dale Hobson, who stepped into the role two months ago, said one of the club’s strengths is the wide range of people it attracts.

“We appeal to a real cross-section of the badminton community,” he said. “Some come for a social hit, while others are serious players looking for competitive games.”

Hobson, who has been a member for two years, said the morning format makes the club unique.

“It’s the only morning club you can go to, which suits people with different schedules,” he said. “For me, doing shift work, it gives me something active and social to do during the day.”

Wan Chii playing badminton at the Tauranga Morning Badminton Club. Photo/ Kelly O’Hara

Club treasurer Diane Yorke said that flexibility is a big part of the appeal.

“Most badminton clubs play at night, but a lot of people can’t get out in the evenings. With more flexible working hours, morning badminton really suits.”

Yorke joined about a decade ago after retiring from a career in banking. Encouraged by a colleague, she gave badminton a go and quickly found her place, eventually becoming treasurer.

“I wanted something social and active,” she said. “And that’s exactly what this club offers.”

That sense of belonging is echoed by club secretary Pam Robertson, who joined in 2024.

I’d always thought about getting back into badminton,” she said. “But it’s not just about the game – it’s the people. Everyone is very welcoming, and you meet such a variety of people from different backgrounds and cultures. It’s really broadened my social circle.”

Carol Sherwen enjoying a moment at the Tauranga Morning Badminton Club. Photo/ Kelly O’Hara

Robertson said the club is evolving, with younger leadership bringing fresh ideas, including coaching opportunities and a push to raise its profile. Hobson said increasing awareness – particularly among younger players – is one of his goals.

“We’re looking at ways to get the word out more, including reaching students and people who might not realise we’re here,” he said.

Some members are relatively new, whereas others have decades of history with the club. Carol Sherwen, while not one of the original club members, is the longest-standing member still playing, having joined in 1987.

“It started as a ladies’ club, but now it’s open to everyone,” she said.

Aged 73, Sherwen has been playing badminton for more than 50 years and still regularly takes to the court.

“It’s like a big extended family,” she said. “We’re a smaller club now, but that just makes it more friendly.”

Tauranga Morning Badminton Club member Colin Dale. Photo/ Kelly O’Hara

Long-time member Gary Cooper, 86, had also seen the club evolve. A badminton player for more than 60 years, he’s competed around the country and won medals at the World Masters Games in Sydney in 2009.

These days, he plays for the love of the game – and the people.

“It’s very social now,” he said. “You mix in with people of all ages and backgrounds. I really enjoy it.”

That mix is something Hobson is keen to emphasise.

“It’s not just one age group,” he said. “We’ve got players ranging from younger, competitive athletes right through to those there for fitness and fun. Everyone can be catered for.”

Sam Opie playing badminton at the Tauranga Morning Badminton Club. Photo/ Kelly O’Hara

Players are graded by ability, allowing games to be matched so everyone can enjoy a fair and competitive experience, whether beginners or seasoned players. Tuesdays tend to be more relaxed and social, while Thursdays often see a higher level of play.

In its heyday, the club had more than 200 members and could fill all 10 courts at the old QE2 facility at Memorial Park. Today, numbers are closer to 30-50 regular players, with additional casuals dropping in.

The current venue offers modern facilities, with four courts typically in use on Tuesdays and up to eight on Thursdays, ensuring plenty of game time.

Tauranga Morning Badminton Club member Carol Sherwen. Photo/ Kelly O’Hara

Despite its strong core of experienced players, the club is keen to welcome newcomers.

“You don’t have to have played before,” Yorke said. “People can just turn up, and we’ll fit them in. We’ve got rackets available, and everyone’s happy to help beginners learn.”

Sessions run from 9.30am to midday Tuesdays and Thursdays, from March to November. Casual players are welcome, with membership options for regulars.

The club also hosts tournaments, including its annual event – this year on June 23, 2026, at the Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre. Open to all, it’s a highlight on the calendar.

To find our more see the club’s Facebook page – search “Tauranga Morning Badminton”.