Join us at the Poverty Bay Bowling Club

A Place to Bowl, a Place to Belong.

Roll Up, Tairāwhiti! Welcome to the Poverty Bay Bowling Club, your community cornerstone since 1920. We're proud to offer a friendly, welcoming environment whether you're a championship competitor, a social bowler, or completely new to the game. At PBBC, we're more than just a place to bowl – we're a place to belong.

Gisborne, New Zealand

Est. 1920

Join us today!

Play All Year Round

We're home to Gisborne's only artificial turf green, a game-changing surface that drip-dries instantly, meaning you can bowl 365 days a year, rain or shine. No more cancelled games, no more seasonal breaks. Just reliable, year-round bowls whenever you fancy a roll up.

Proudly Sponsored By

Interested in Sponsorship?

We offer various packages and promotional opportunities for businesses wanting to support lawn bowls in Gisborne. Contact us to discuss how we can work together.

What's On at PBBC

Monday

500 Club

Join our friendly 500 Card Club every Monday from 1pm - 4pm. A perfect opportunity to enjoy a classic card game in relaxed company, where new players are warmly welcomed and regular members are always happy to help you learn the ropes.

Tuesday

PB Woolcrafters Club (Sun City Spinners)

The PB Woolcrafters (Sun City Spinners) gather every Tuesday from 9am - 11:30am. Bring your needles, yarn, and current project to enjoy a relaxed morning of crafting, conversation, and companionship in our comfortable clubrooms, where both beginners seeking guidance and experienced crafters are equally welcome.

Club Rollups

Join our popular Tuesday Club Rollups (names in by 1:15pm, start 1:30pm). A relaxed form of competitive bowling that's perfect for new members wanting to build confidence and experienced players alike, with our friendly atmosphere ensuring everyone from beginners to seasoned bowlers enjoys the mix of social connection and friendly rivalry.

Thursday

Wahine Bowls

Join our thriving Wahine Bowls every Thursday morning (names in by 9:15am, start 9:30am). Born from Sport Gisborne Tairāwhiti's Well Wahine Week, these women-only sessions provide a relaxed group environment where new bowlers learn without the pressure of formal club roll-ups, while experienced players enjoy good competitive games and monthly mini-tournaments. With supportive mentoring from club members, a fun social atmosphere, and morning tea complete with homemade scones, sandwiches or muffins, it's the perfect way to start your Thursday. All wahine welcome - non-members pay a small green fee.

Rhythm n' Lines

Join Rhythm n' Lines for their lively "Thriyay" line dancing sessions every Thursday evening from 5:30pm - 6:30pm ($6). Whether you're a complete beginner or seasoned pro, this vibrant community welcomes all ages and abilities to learn, laugh and line dance together in the Poverty Bay Bowling Club's spacious facilities. With their fun-loving approach, dress-up themes (double denim is back!), and emphasis on community connection, you'll discover that line dancing is the perfect way to end your Thursday on a high note.

Friday

Bowls, Burgers & Bevvies

Roll into the weekend with Bowls, Burgers and Bevvies every Friday from 5pm - 7pm. Perfect for trying bowls for the first time or simply enjoying our famous beef burgers and chips while the kids tuck into nuggets, all set to music and good vibes in the relaxed atmosphere that makes Poverty Bay Bowling Club the friendliest place to play. With club bowls available to borrow (just bring flat-soled shoes), raffles to win, and our licensed bar serving cold beverages, it's the ideal way for friends and whānau to kick off their weekend together.

Saturday

Club Rollups

Join our popular Saturday Club Rollups (names in by 1:15pm, start 1:30pm). A relaxed form of competitive bowling that's perfect for new members wanting to build confidence and experienced players alike. Held every Saturday, unless there is a tournament on - please check the Events Calendar.