The Fast5 Netball World Series is returning to the international calendar with New Zealand confirmed as tournament host for the next three years.
Netball New Zealand has been awarded the rights through 2024 with Christchurch to play host in both 2022 and 2023.
The world’s top six ranked teams will be invited to compete in the shortened form of the game, with Christchurch to host the event next November.
World Netball boss Clare Briegal says they're delighted to see Fast5 netball back on the international scene after a disrupted calendar due to the global pandemic.
"New Zealanders are some of the most passionate and knowledgeable netball fans in the world and I feel it’s fitting to see our fun, festive tournament return to New Zealand at this time," she says.
"The Fast5 Netball World Series has had incredible success and a strong following and we're looking forward to seeing that growth continue over the next three editions."
Fast5 is a modified version of the game featuring multiple-point shots, double-point power plays, five players-a-side, and shortened quarters.
The Fast5 Ferns have dominated the world competition since 2009, winning seven titles.
Netball NZ boss Jennie Wyllie says they're thrilled to be hosting Fast5 and are looking forward to welcoming some of the game’s best international players to New Zealand.
“We’re really excited to be hosting this fast-paced tournament again – it is a real celebration of netball, on and off the court," she says.
"Due to COVID-19 there have been challenges with delivering netball recently so what better way to welcome the return of Fast5 athletes than by hosting this event and welcoming the world's best netballers to our shores.
"There is a party-like atmosphere with this tournament, and I know it’s a phenomenally popular event with the athletes and spectators.
"Having such a great city as Christchurch to host the International netball event and knowing the huge support in Canterbury made it the perfect location to bring Fast5 back to New Zealand."
New Zealand won the inaugural Fast5 Netball World Series, which was held in Manchester in 2009, and have held the title seven times, including their last win in Melbourne in 2018, which was the last year the event was held.
New Zealand last hosted the tournament in Auckland, 2014.
