Chemist Warehouse Hoops in Schools

What is Chemist Warehouse Hoops in Schools?

Chemist Warehouse Hoops in Schools is a Basketball New Zealand programme that partners with schools, funders, local basketball associations and other basketball providers. The concept puts more fit-for-purpose hoops in schools, so young people are more active and having fun playing hoops in their communities.

A lack of suitable equipment and facilities is one of the biggest barriers to participation. Currently many schools are unable to provide opportunities or support the growth and popularity of basketball as they do not have basketball backboards with their school, nor do they have teachers or parents who have the confidence or expertise to implement a basketball programme within the school.

A NZ Sport and Recreation Award nominee for the Community Impact Award in 2021, Chemist Warehouse Hoops in Schools continues to prove that, with good planning and collaboration, we can give Kiwi kids the equipment they need to get started in the sport. This cost effective solution proves you don’t need an indoor gym – all kids need is a suitable concrete surface, a good hoop and a ball.

More hoops in schools means more sustainable, long term participation opportunities for our tamariki and rangatahi.

From 2026, the Chemist Warehouse Hoops in Schools programme will move to a round-based funding model, giving schools across Aotearoa clearer timeframes, fair regional access, and faster installation outcomes.

Instead of a single national intake, schools will now be invited to apply through five regional funding rounds across the year. Each round will be open for 2–3 weeks, with applications reviewed shortly after closing and successful schools notified before installations are scheduled.

This new approach means:

• Greater equity – regions are prioritised across the year
• Clear timelines – you’ll know when to apply and when hoops will be installed
• Faster outcomes – no long waits or year-end backlogs
• Stronger impact – supporting sustainable, long-term participation in school communities

Each funding round is aligned to specific regions (see the table above) and includes:

1. An open application window
2. A review and notification period
3. A scheduled installation timeframe

When your region’s round opens, click the Apply Now button below to nominate your school. Together, we’re not just installing hoops – we’re building lasting basketball communities in schools across the motu!