Christchurch has been confirmed as the host city for the 2026 New Zealand Squash Open, with the iconic Isaac Theatre Royal set to be transformed once again into a world-class squash arena.
Following the overwhelming success of the 2025 tournament, the event will return from March 3 to 8, 2026, bringing top international squash back to one of the country’s most unique sporting venues.
The 2025 Open attracted record-breaking crowds for a squash event in New Zealand and delivered a major economic boost to Christchurch, generating over 2,000 visitor nights. Local favourite Paul Coll defended his title in front of a packed audience, with fans treated to elite squash on a striking glass court set on the theatre stage.
Squash New Zealand Chief Executive Martin Dowson.
“The 2025 Open was an outstanding success and a true celebration of squash,” said Squash New Zealand Chief Executive Martin Dowson. “The unique setting, strong community engagement and elite competition created a fantastic combination that we’re excited to build on. We’re proud to bring it all back in 2026 and once again celebrate squash in Christchurch.”
Next year’s event will again be classified as a Silver-level tournament on the PSA World Tour and will headline the New Zealand Festival of Squash. The festival will also feature the Oceania Masters and New Zealand Junior Open, held across multiple local venues including Christchurch Squash Club, Burnside Squash Club, Richmond Club Squash Centre and Christchurch Football Squash Club.
Event Organiser Scott Gardiner said, “We’re thrilled to confirm the return of the NZ Squash Open to the Isaac Theatre Royal. The 2026 event will be even bigger and better and we’re encouraging fans around the country to mark their calendars and book it in.”
ChristchurchNZ Head of Major Events Karena Finnie said the event is a unique showcase of Christchurch’s strengths. “Christchurch has both a proud history of sport as well as a vibrant arts district, and the NZ Squash Open brings those together beautifully. Attendees loved the stunning setting, and we’re looking forward to both the Open and the Oceania Masters next year.”
ChristchurchNZ Head of Major Events Karena Finnie
Oceania Squash Federation President Robert Donaghue added, “The Festival of Squash is a fantastic concept, combining elite international competition with age-group events that allow families to travel together, play together, and be inspired by the top players in the world. It’s a brilliant showcase of what squash can offer our region.”
The 2026 New Zealand Squash Open and associated events will again be delivered in partnership with the Professional Squash Association (PSA), Squash Events Canterbury, and supported by Sport New Zealand, ChristchurchNZ, and Lucino.
