The biggest netball competition in the Cook Islands makes a comeback tomorrow. Netball in Paradise, held annually in December, will see a wide range of teams make it to the courts to battle it out.

Netball in Paradise includes age grade divisions for players 13 years and under, 15 years and under, and 17 years and under.

Netball Cook Islands secretary Tekura Moekaa said competition takes place between 2-8 December.

Moekaa said the competition is moving east on Rarotonga this year, where Ngatangiia/Matavera will play host.

Ten teams are arriving from overseas this week across three categories, U13, Social Women and Open Mixed, with some local teams joining in as well.

There will be pool matches then play offs.

“This is a great number of teams from overseas since the closing of the borders in 2019/20,” Moekaa said.

The tournament returned in 2021 after a year of absence from the courts.

“This event has always been popular since its inception and is organised in collaboration with Destination Management Cook Islands.

“In recent years we still managed to run the competition with local teams.”

She said at least 100 people including players, officials and spectators are expected.  

Games start on Saturday, with an opening from 9am.