Referees are essential to the sport of underwater hockey - ensuring fair, safe, and enjoyable games for players at all levels. Whether officiating school leagues, club nights, or national tournaments, our refs uphold the integrity of play and help grow the game.
AUWH is always looking for more referees so this page is your starting point for everything related to refereeing in the Auckland region: how to become a certified ref, who to contact, and where to find the most up-to-date rules and resources.

Why Become a Referee?

Refereeing underwater hockey is a fantastic way to:

• Give back to the sport
• Improve your own understanding of the rules
• Stay involved even if you’re not playing
• Travel and officiate at regional or national events

Many top-level players and coaches began as referees, it’s a valued and respected role within the community.

"Being a ref has made me appreciate the game in a completely different way"

- Sam Marshall
Aspiring Referee & Elites Men Player

Qualification process

Underwater hockey referees in New Zealand progress through three certification levels. Each level builds on the previous one and involves both theory and practical assessment.
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Level 1 Referee - Entry-level qualification
What it allows:

• Ref school games and club matches
• Focus on basic rules, positioning, and hand signals

How to achieve:

• Attend a Level 1 referee course (two days)
• Pass the Level 1 theory test (rules, signals, positioning)
• Complete a practical assessment while refereeing live games
• After 10 games get signed off by a Level 2 or 3 referee assessor

Referee Resources & Materials

Looking for rules, guidelines, training videos, or referee development documents?
Visit our dedicated Materials page for a full collection of:

• Official underwater hockey rules (NZUWH & CMAS)
• Referee signals & handbooks
• Training videos and guides for all levels

Level 2 Referee - Regional Competency​
What it allows:

• Referee regional competitions and high-level club games

How to achieve:

• Hold a valid Level 1 qualification
• Gain consistent practical experience
• Pass the Level 2 theory test
• Be evaluated during multiple games by a Level 3 referee or official assessor
• Demonstrate strong positioning, game control, communication, and judgment

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 Level 3 Referee - National Qualification
What it allows:

• Referee national tournaments, assess other referees, and lead referee teams

How to achieve:

• Hold an active Level 2 qualification
• Accumulate substantial high-level refereeing experience (regional/national events)
• Be nominated by senior referees or NZUWH
• Undergo a Level 3 assessment, including:
  1. Performance across multiple games
  2. Demonstrated leadership and mentoring
  3. High-level rule interpretation and consistency

Each level is maintained through ongoing involvement and refresher opportunities.
If you're interested in starting or progressing, reach out via the email below or speak to your local club / school coordinator.

Email