Four Nations Men's hockey for Hamilton
- editor59343
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Black Sticks Men will host Korea, Japan, and Malaysia in a Four Nations tournament at the in Hamilton 30 January to 3 February 2026.
Following the women’s expanded Five Nations Tournament in Dunedin featuring the Black Sticks, Korea, Japan, the United States, and India,
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The Hamilton Four Nations will feature eight matches across four days, with each team playing one another before a final day of playoffs (3v4 and 1v2). With three match days, two games per day, and a stand alone finals day.
New Zealand 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 in the year. Playing Korea, Japan, and Malaysia at home allows us to test our depth, sharpen our style of play, and continue building a competitive programme heading toward the 2026 World Cup.
The chance to play in front of our fans again is something the team is really looking forward to.”
It is the first time the New Zealnad men have played at home the 2023 Oceania Cup in Whangārei, and anticipation is high following their recent success at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, where they secured bronze with a dominant win over host nation Malaysia.
Hockey NZ CEO Michelle Hollands says hosting both national teams on home soil to open the year is a significant moment for the sport,
“Starting 2026 with both Vantage Black Sticks teams playing across Aotearoa is a fantastic way to engage fans and showcase international hockey at home. These tournaments provide a strong foundation as they build toward the World Cup, and we’re committed to bringing supporters along on that journey.”
Match Schedule:
Friday January 30
4.30pm: Japan vs Korea
6.30pm: Black Sticks vs Malaysia
Saturday January 31
4.30pm: Malaysia vs Japan
6.30pm: Black Sticks vs Malaysia
Monday February 2
4.30pm: Malaysia vs Korea
6.30pm: Black Sticks vs Malaysia
Tuesday February 3, Summer of Hockey Finals
4.30pm: 3rd place vs 4th place
6.30pm: Grand Final