Welcome to the ice
We're launching informal shinny sessions at Avondale Ice Rink. It's a fun way to play ice hockey with just a stick and a puck. No formal teams, no expensive gear, no training, and no pressure. Just come along and have fun with your mates!
We have strict non-contact rules so we can all play ice hockey without padding and without worrying about getting hurt.
Most of our players will be high school students but we invite parents and siblings to play too. Shinny is perfect for families and mixed skill levels - come and give it a try!
At a glance
- Pickup ice hockey
- Non-contact
- Equipment provided
- Beginner friendly
- Families welcome
- No experience needed
Coming soon — don't miss it
Our first-ever shinny session!
We're hitting the ice for the very first time. Come join us!
- When Sunday 31 May 2026 · 4:00 pm
- Where Avondale Ice Rink, Auckland
$20 Free!
This session is on us.
We need a good turnout to continue running sessions. Bring your friends!
Register for the first sessionIce hockey for everyone
New to ice hockey? You're in good company! Most people haven't played before, so you can expect plenty of wobbly skating and a few falls.
We learn by playing short games so everyone gets time with the puck. If you are looking for some skating practice or a warm-up, check Avondale's public skate timetable and book a slot that fits your visit.
If you have played before then please take it easy and give the newer players plenty of room and support as they learn the basics.
How it works
Arrival time, teams, games, and what to bring
Upcoming sessions
Our first-ever ice hockey session is coming soon!
Rules
We have a few simple game rules to keep everyone safe and having fun.
- Strictly non-contact play — no body checking or rough play.
- Respect all skill levels and give everyone room to play.
- Never raise your stick above waist height.
- Keep the puck on the ice — no slapshots or lifting.
- Players are not allowed to lie, sit, or kneel down on the ice.
- If someone falls over, wait for them to get up before continuing play.
- No player may lay their stick or any body part flat on the ice to block the puck.
- Listen to organisers and rink staff at all times.
Anyone who repeatedly or deliberately breaks these rules will be asked to leave.
Meet the organisers
Auckland Shinny was created by Ollie and his dad Jamie - two Canadian wannabes who love playing stick-and-puck ice hockey on the frozen lakes in Alberta. We started the club because (i) Canada is really far away, (ii) the lakes in Auckland hardly ever freeze, (iii) Auckland doesn't have any lakes, and (iv) we really want to play shinny with our friends in Auckland.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring any gear?
We recommend warm clothes, gloves, thick socks and a water bottle. You can borrow ice skates, stick and helmet at the rink.
Do I need to be good at ice skating to play?
No. It helps to have some basic skating skills, but most people will be learning and playing for the first time.
Is ice hockey hard to learn?
Like most things, it takes a lot of practice to get really good at it. But anyone can come along and give it a try. It's easy to join in and very addictive!
How much does it cost?
The first session is free! After that, we plan to charge $20 per person for future sessions, to help cover the costs of renting the ice.
Can my parents play too?
Yes! Tell them to join in, the more the merrier. And they need the exercise.
Can my little brother/sister play?
Yes, as long as they are old enough to stay on their feet and not get hurt, and someone is supervising them at all times.
Can my grandad play?
Yes, as long as he can handle a fall on the ice now and then. Everyone falls over sometimes when playing shinny!
Can my dog play?
No. We draw the line at pets. You'll have to leave your dog at home.
I love this! When can I play again?
We're hoping to run sessions every few weeks, when the ice is available, assuming we get enough interest to keep it going.
Is shinny the best game on earth?
Yes. Yes it is.
Register to play
Let us know you're coming so we can reserve a spot for you. If you're under 14 please ask an adult to register for you.
Where to find us
Avondale Ice Rink, 150 Lansford Crescent, Avondale, Auckland 0600.
Contact
Please get in touch if you would like to know more or ask a question.