Padel vs. Pickleball! The Key Differences & Where to Play in NZ
Mike Wood · 7 February, 2025
Racket sports are having a bit of a moment, and if you haven't given them a go yet, you might be missing out on your next favourite hobby. Whether you're looking for a social sport to play with friends, a competitive outlet to channel your energy, or simply a fun way to stay active without hitting the gym, there’s something for everyone.
Enter padel and pickleball (and no, they are not the same sport). Padel and pickleball offer a blend of strategy, movement, and social play, making them accessible and engaging for players of all levels. These sports provide an excellent way to stay active if you’re looking to switch up your weekend routine, meet new people, or just try something different.
With their relatively small court sizes and emphasis on doubles play, both sports encourage teamwork, quick decision-making, and a dynamic style of play that keeps things exciting. Plus, they are easy to pick up, even if you've never played a racket sport before, making them ideal for beginners and seasoned athletes alike.
But what sets them apart, and where can you play in New Zealand? Let’s break it down.
Origins: How Did Padel and Pickleball Begin?
Padel: From Mexico to Global Fame
Padel traces its roots back to the late 1960s in Acapulco, Mexico. Enrique Corcuera, looking to modify Basque pelota, built a court with walls to prevent balls from flying into his neighbour’s property. Inspired by paddle tennis, he introduced rackets, creating the first-ever game of padel. The sport quickly gained traction in Spain after Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe introduced it to Marbella, where the first padel courts were built. From there, padel expanded across Spain, then to Argentina and Uruguay, before becoming a global sensation. In 1991, the International Padel Federation was established, further cementing its status as a worldwide sport.
Pickleball: A Family Game Turned Worldwide Phenomenon
Pickleball has a more recent history, originating in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. A group of neighbours, lacking a full set of badminton equipment, improvised a game using an old badminton court, ping-pong paddles, and a Wiffle ball. The result was pickleball, which steadily grew in popularity. In 1972, the first pickleball organisation was formed, and by the 1980s, the first official rulebook was published. By the 1990s, the sport was played across all 50 U.S. states, and in 2010, the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) was created to expand the sport globally. By 2022, pickleball was the fastest-growing sport in the United States.
Why Do People Confuse Padel and Pickleball?
It’s easy to see why some people think these sports are the same. In our previous blog, we explain that both are racket-based and played on a smaller court than tennis. However, padel incorporates elements of squash, using walls for strategic play, whereas pickleball is more similar to a mix of tennis and table tennis. The techniques, strokes, and footwork in pickleball closely resemble those in tennis, while padel players must adapt to a unique set of tactics involving walls.
What Are the Top Brands for Each Sport?
Finding the right gear can make all the difference in your game, and both padel and pickleball have top-tier brands producing high-quality equipment. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade, choosing the right racket or paddle can enhance your performance and enjoyment on the court.
When it comes to padel, brands like Wilson, HEAD, and Babolat are leading the way, offering high-quality padel rackets and balls designed for durability and precision. These brands cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned players, ensuring you have the best equipment to step up your game.
For pickleball enthusiasts, Wilson, HEAD, and Diadem are among the go-to brands, providing a variety of paddles, nets, and balls. Whether you're after a lightweight paddle for quick reactions or a more solid design for controlled power shots, these brands offer something for everyone.
Where to Play Padel and Pickleball in New Zealand
Padel in New Zealand
Padel is still growing in New Zealand, but there is a national governing body - Padel New Zealand, a member of the International Padel Federation. Currently, there are four sports clubs with padel courts:
Auckland (2 clubs)
Tauranga (1 club)
Wellington (1 club)
As of now, no national padel tournaments are running in New Zealand, but interest in the sport continues to rise.
Pickleball in New Zealand
Pickleball, on the other hand, has seen faster adoption, with Pickleball New Zealand leading the charge to promote the sport. There are currently 62 clubs, communities, and playing locations across the country. Regular tournaments are also held for those looking to test their skills competitively.
Final Thoughts: Why Choose One When You Can Try Both?
Why choose when you can test out both? Padel and pickleball each bring something different to the court - padel’s fast-paced, wall-assisted action keeps things exciting, while pickleball’s strategic, quick exchanges make for a fun challenge. The best way to find your favourite? Play a few matches of each and see what fits your style. Whether you’re in it for the competition, the fitness, or just a good time with friends, padel and pickleball each have something unique to offer.
New Zealand has fantastic opportunities to try both - so grab a racket, a paddle, or both, and get on the court. The only real decision you need to make is which game you’ll play first!
Shop our full range of pickleball paddles here and padel rackets here.