Padel is gaining momentum in New Zealand, with courts emerging in cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Combining elements of tennis and squash, this exciting, fast-paced sport is attracting a wide range of players. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete looking for a new challenge, becoming a good padel player in New Zealand is absolutely within reach.
Here’s how to build your skills and confidence as a padel player in Aotearoa.
1. Start With the Fundamentals
The first step to becoming a successful padel player is learning the basics. Padel is played on a smaller court than tennis and uses walls, much like squash. It’s a doubles sport, which means teamwork is central. Understanding the rules, how the court works, and how the ball behaves off the walls gives every padel player a solid starting point. Don’t skip the fundamentals — they’ll serve you well in the long run.
2. Get the Right Gear
To perform well, you need proper equipment. A padel racket is solid and perforated, designed for control, power, or a mix of both. Choose one that suits your level and playing style. Proper footwear is also crucial — court shoes with grip and lateral support will keep you moving safely. A prepared padel player in New Zealand understands that good gear helps both comfort and performance.
3. Take Coaching Lessons
Coaching can dramatically improve your progress. Across New Zealand, more clubs are offering coaching sessions as interest in padel grows. A qualified coach can help you refine your technique, improve footwork, and learn effective strategies. Working with a coach means quicker development, especially for a padel player who’s serious about reaching the next level.
4. Train Consistently
As with any sport, consistency is key. A committed padel player practices regularly — not just in matches, but also in drills and focused training sessions. Practice volleys, smashes, lobs, and rebounds off the walls. Many clubs in New Zealand offer weekly events and group training, giving you ample chances to keep your game sharp while meeting other players.
5. Focus on Strategy and Teamwork
Padel isn’t just about powerful shots — it’s about smart tactics. A skilled padel player reads the game, anticipates opponents’ moves, and works in sync with their partner. Communication, positioning, and timing are critical. Learn when to attack, when to defend, and how to build points patiently. Strategic play will take you further than raw power alone.
6. Master the Walls
One thing that separates a beginner from a seasoned padel player is how they use the walls. The glass walls at the back and sides of the court are an integral part of the game. Learn how the ball rebounds and practice using the wall to your advantage. Whether defending or setting up a counterattack, a good padel player knows how to make the walls work for them.
7. Stay Fit and Agile
Padel demands quick reflexes, endurance, and agility. To succeed, a padel player should focus on overall fitness — strength, speed, balance, and core stability. Incorporate short agility drills, resistance exercises, and cardio into your weekly routine. Staying fit helps you react faster, cover the court efficiently, and maintain high energy throughout matches.
8. Join a Local Club or Community
Padel is a social sport, and one of the best ways to grow as a padel player in New Zealand is by joining a club. Many clubs now offer leagues, social play, coaching, and tournaments. Being part of a club exposes you to different playing styles and helps you develop both your technique and your competitive mindset. The community support can also keep you motivated to keep improving.
9. Watch and Learn From Others
There’s always something to learn by observing. Watch professional matches online or live, if available. Focus on how top players position themselves, communicate, and construct points. Even at your local club, pay attention to stronger players. A curious and observant padel player will pick up subtle techniques and smarter ways to play.
10. Stay Patient and Have Fun
Improving at padel takes time. You’ll hit rough patches and make mistakes, but that’s part of the journey. A resilient padel player stays positive, learns from each match, and embraces the challenge. Celebrate your progress — even small improvements add up. And most importantly, have fun. The best padel player is one who enjoys the process and shares that energy on the court.
