NEW ZEALAND DARTS COUNCIL (INCORPORATED)

PLAYING RULES

All darts events under the exclusive or approved supervision of the New Zealand Darts Council (Inc)

("The Council") shall in accordance with the following rules.

GENERAL

1          

1             Players shall provide their own darts which shall not exceed an overall length of 30.5cms (12 inches) nor weight more than 50 grams.  Each dart shall consist of a needle point which shall be fixed to a barrel.  At the rear of the barrel shall be an attached flight stem which may consist of up to three (3) separate pieces (a flight securing device and a stem).

2             The Council reserves the right to seed players or teams in certain events, when deemed necessary.

3             All players or teams shall play within the Council playing rules and, where necessary, any supplementary rules laid down in an entry form or programme.

4             All trophies awarded to a player or a team are to be retained unless they are of a challenge or perpetual type, when such trophies are to be returned to the organisers on request.  All Island and National trophies presented to the respective winners at the New Zealand Championships each year are to be returned to the Council, one month after the conclusion of the championships for safekeeping.  The Council will be responsible for the care and maintenance of these trophies and will also undertake to have each trophy engraved as appropriate.

5             Any player or team failing to comply with any of the Council playing rules during an event, shall be liable to disqualification from that event.

6             The interpretation of the Council playing rules in relation to a darts event shall be determined by the organisers of that event, whose decision shall be final and binding.

7             Information concerning such interpretations shall be forwarded to the Chief Executive for consideration and possible inclusion in a revised version of the Council playing rules.

8             Any matter not expressly covered by the Council playing rules shall be determined by the Council Executive, whose decision shall be binding and final.

9             The term "Organiser" shall mean the Council, its officials, or persons appointed by the Council to carry out its functions in relation to darts events.

10           THROW

                10.1         A player shall throw darts from a standing position, excepting only in those circumstances when a physical disability or physical injury requires a player to adopt a non standing position. (i.e. a wheelchair or similar form of support).

10.2         All darts must be deliberately thrown, one at a time, by and from the player's hand.

                10.3         A throw shall consist of three darts, unless a leg, set or match is finished in less than three darts.

                10.4         If a player touches any dart which is in the dartboard during a throw, then that throw shall be deemed to have been completed.  If any chalker or caller should remove any dart, when throw has not been completed then the dart(s) removed shall be placed in as near a position to that before they were removed and the play will continue.

                10.5         Any dart bouncing off, or falling out of the dartboard does not count and shall not be re thrown.

11        STARTING AND FINISHING

                11.1         In all darts events, each leg shall be played with a straight start and the finish must be on a double, unless stated otherwise in the playing format of a particular event.

                11.2         The bull shall count as 50 and if 50 is required to complete a leg, set, or match, then the bull shall count as double 25.

                11.3         The "Bust" rule shall apply, i.e. if a player scores more than the number required then that score shall not count and the player shall revert back to the score the player required prior to the opponents last throw.

11.4         A "Game Shot" called by the referee or caller is valid only if the darts thrown, achieve the

                required finish, and remain in the dartboard until "Game Shot" has been called.

                11.5         The Council does not recognise the principal of equal darts.  A player who checks out by obtaining the points required in accordance with the Council playing Rules wins that leg, set or match.

                11.6         If as result of an error being declared in clause 11.3, the player has retrieved a dart or darts, then the referee or caller shall replace the dart or darts in as near as is practicable the same position or positions and then invite the player to complete that throw.

                11.7         Any darts mistakenly thrown by a player after scoring the required double shall not be counted as the respective leg, set or match is concluded by the dart scoring the required double.

12        SCORING

                12.1         A dart shall only score if the point remains in, or touches, the face of the dartboard within the outer double wire and having been called shall be retrieved from the dartboard by the thrower.  Except as in 11.4 when "Game Shot" has been called.

                12.2         The score is counted from the side of the segment wire in which the point of the dart enters and remains in, or touching, the face of the dartboard.

                12.3         Darts shall be retrieved from the Dartboard by the thrower, but only after the score has been called by the referee, or caller, and recorded by the scorer or marker.

                12.4         A protest about the score attained or called after the retrieval of the dart or darts may not be upheld.

                12.5         All scores and subtraction's made shall be checked by the referee, or caller, the scorer, or marker and the players after each throw and where practicable, before the next player's throw commences.

                12.6         All requests to check scores recorded or subtraction's must be made before the player's or teams next throw.

                12.7         The actual score required by a player or a team must be shown on the score sheet or scoreboard, clearly visible, at eye level, in front of the players, the referee or caller.

                12.8         No indication of the required double shall be given by the scorer, or marker, the referee, or caller, (i.e. 32 required, not double 16).  Any interim score requested and given by the caller, or marker, shall not be binding should the wrong score be given, and only scores recorded and subtracted at the completion of a throw be counted.  The onus for a correct score remains with the thrower at all times in regards to interim scores.

                12.9         The first player or team to reduce the score required to exactly zero, by obtaining the required "double" out is the winner of that leg, set or match, whichever is applicable.

                12.10       The referee or caller shall act as an umpire in all matters pertaining to the Council Playing Rules when conducting a darts match and shall if necessary consult with scorers and other officials before announcing any decisions during the course of a leg, set or match.

Example of setting out Score Sheet.

                                                                501

100

401

  60

341 etc.

13        DART BOARDS.

                13.1         All dart boards shall be of the bristle type.

                13.2         All dartboards shall be of the 1. 20 clock pattern.

                13.3         The inner narrow band shall score "treble" the segment.

                13.4         The outer narrow band shall score "double" the segment number.

                13.5         The outer centre shall score" 25".

                13.6         The inner centre ring shall score "50", and shall be called "The Bull".

                13.7         All the wires forming the segments, double, trebles, inner and outer centre rings which together form the spider shall be affixed to the face in such a manner that they lie flat on the face of the dartboard.

                13.8         The dartboard shall be fixed in such a manner that the perpendicular height from the floor to the centre of the "Bull" at the same level of the oche shall measure 1.73 metres (5 ft. 8ins).

13.9         The dartboard shall be fixed such that the "20" segment is coloured black and at the top of

                the dartboard.

                13.10       Adjustments to the position of or changing of a dartboard shall only be carried out by a match official.

14        LIGHTING.

                14.1         In tournament play, all floor dartboards shall be adequately lit by a suitably positioned light fitting at each dart board.  Dartboards used in "Stage Finals" shall be adequately lit by suitably positioned light fittings.

                14.2         All light fittings must be fitted with screens to divert all light away from the players eye when standing on the oche.

                14.3         In tournament play and stage finals, the general illumination can be augmented by the use of "floods" and "spotlights", however where these are used they must be placed in such manner as to prevent the introduction of unwanted shadows on the dartboard during match play.  Where this is not possible, then the use of "floods or "spotlights" shall not be permitted.

15        OCHES.

15.1         A raised "oche" not less than 50 mm high and not less than 450 mm long must be placed in position at the minimum throwing distance and shall measure from the back of the raised "oche" 2.37 metres (7 ft. 9, 1/4 inches) along the floor to a plumb line at the face of the dartboard.

                15.2         During match play no player shall tread on any part of the raised oche nor shall the player deliver any dart with his feet in any position other than behind the toe edge of the raised oche.

                15.3         A player wishing to throw a dart from a point either side of the raised oche must keep his feet behind an imaginary straight line extending on either side of the raised oche.

                15.4         Any player in breach of Rule 15.2 or 15.3 shall first be warned by the referee or caller in the presence of the players Captain of Team Manager.  Any dart subsequently delivered in breach of these rules shall not score and will be declared invalid by the referee or caller.

                15.5         A player or team captain shall have the right to request that the oche dimensions be checked, and adjusted if necessary, always providing that the opposing player or team captain concurs with the request.  Such requests must be made before the start of or after the completion of a leg.  The match official shall, at his discretion, convey the request to the Stage Manager or Floor Controller, so that a check and adjustment if necessary shall only be made before the start of or after the completion of a leg.

                15.6         Adjustments to and checking of oche dimensions shall only be carried out by a match official.

TOURNAMENTS AND CHAMPIONSHIPS

The Council is engaged in running two major categories of tournaments or championships.

MEMBER ONLY TOURNAMENTS.

These are run for the benefit of Council playing members only, which includes registered international members.

OPEN TOURNAMENTS

These are run for the benefit of all darts players world-wide, subject only to Council rules on eligibility.

16.       TOURNAMENT AND CHAMPIONSHIP PLAYING RULES.

                16.1         All dart players and teams shall play under the supervision and direction of council appointed organisers, in all darts events run under the jurisdiction of the Council.

                16.2         Council tournaments and championships may be run as knockout, round robin, or sectional play, as advised by the Council for that particular event.

                16.3         The Council or its appointed organisers reserve the right to cancel or change all dates, venues, and scheduled darts events.

16.4         Decisions on all matters pertaining to the Council playing rules in any Council tournament

                               or championships shall be made by the appropriate organisers, whose decision shall be final and                                 binding

                16.5         All tournament players or teams shall play within the Council playing rules and where necessary any supplementary rules laid down in a darts event entry form or programme.

                16.6         Any player or team found guilty of deliberately losing a leg, set or match, shall be disqualified from any further participation in that particular Council darts event, that player or team shall also be barred from entering any other council event until such time as laid down by the Council Executive.

                16.7         No player or team, having once been knocked out of a "knockout tournament" either as a substitute player or team in his or their own right, shall continue to play, excepting in those circumstances when a breach of the Council playing rules has occurred which materially affected the losing player or team, such breach not having been occasioned by the losing player or team.  The Council appointed organisers may, at their own discretion, reinstate the player or team in the tournament, either in substitution for or in addition to the winning player or team.  The rules shall be construed as embracing any number of players up to and including a complete team.

                16.8         If a player or team representative is not present at the official presentation ceremony to receive trophies, prizes, or prize monies, without the Council appointed organisers or promoters prior permission, then that player or team representative shall forfeit the right to receive any such trophies, prizes or prize monies that may be due.

                16.9         Any player or team not fulfilling the playing commitments of the tournament by failing to complete all scheduled matches, including Grand Finals, shall forfeit the right to receive any trophies, prizes or prize monies that may be due in relation to that respective tournament.

                16.10       If any additional expenses are incurred due to default by a player or team then that player or team shall be liable for those additional expenses.

                16.11       In the event of a player or team being involved in or causing actions considered to have brought the sport of darts into disrepute, then that player or team shall be subject to disciplinary measures being taken against that player or team, which could mean the imposition of fines, suspensions, or other penalties.

17        ENTRY.

                17.1         Admission Fees to tournament venues are not refundable.

                17.2         Entry Fees are not refundable except on those occasions deemed necessary by the Council Executive.

                17.3         All entries must be made on an official Council entry form, fully completed, and must be returned together with the appropriate entry fee before or on the specified closing date.

                17.4         No entry will be accepted unless strictly in accordance with the requirements laid down on the entry form.

                17.5         The first named player on a team entry form shall assume the responsibility of notifying the second or other named players of the receipt of and contents of all communications in connection with the darts event received by him from the Council appointed organisers.

                17.6         Receipt of an entry form will only be acknowledged if a self addressed envelope with the entry form, together with sufficient postage to cover the return of the receipt.

                17.7         Only the players named on an entry form as the competing individual or team shall be eligible to play in the respective darts event.

                17.8         No player or team shall enter more than once in any respective darts event.

                17.9         No player shall play in more than one team in any respective darts event.

                17.10       All players participating in any darts event must enter under their own name.

                17.11       Unless otherwise stated, all entry fees shall be used exclusively in defraying tournament expenses, to further the promotion of the sport of darts, or go to charity.

                17.12       Completion of any entry form by a player or team for the Council darts event and the acceptance of that entry form by the Council shall be deemed to be an acceptance by that player or team of the council playing rules covering that darts event.

                17.13       The Council appointed organisers reserve the right to refuse or cancel any entrant at any stage during a darts event and their decision shall be final in all matches relating to that darts event.  Where qualifiers are a prerequisite to any tournament, then emergencies should be named, in the absence of a qualifier, NO inclusion of an emergency will be permitted unless such change is notified in writing to the organisers by a recognised official of the organisation responsible for producing and forwarding such names to the host.

18.       REGISTRATION

                18.1         All tournament players or teams shall register at each darts event at the scheduled times predetermined by the Council appointed organisers.

                18.2         Any tournament player or teams failing to register by the notified time shall be eliminated from that respective tournament in which instance no entry fee shall be refundable.

                18.3         No player or team shall be allowed to register more than once in any respective darts event in any one playing season.

                18.4         Any player or team not in attendance when called upon to play at the nominated time shall forfeit that leg, set, or match whichever is applicable, and in such circumstances no entry fee shall be refundable. In "Round Robin" events a breach under this clause shall be sufficient to disqualify such player or team from continuing in the event and the record of any games completed shall be deleted.  At no stage shall a substitute or emergency be allowed to take the place of a player or team in breach of this rule.

                18.5         Only three minutes shall be allowed from the time of calling for the player or team to reach the Control Desk or assigned match board, whichever requirement is being called for.

                18.6         The Council appointed organisers reserve the right to alter the scheduled times and playing format of a darts event whenever it is deemed necessary.

                18.7         Any player or team has the right  to be advised of the time of the next match that the player or team is scheduled to play.

19        DRAW

                19.1         There will be only one draw prepared for tournaments which shall be conducted prior to the darts event, excepting where a barrel draw system is to be used.

                19.2         Draw sheets must be displayed where possible at the Control Desk, in the event programme, at the match board, or at a convenient point in the venue.

                19.3         The times indicated on the draw sheet are for the player guidance only, who should be prepared to be called to the Control Desk up to 30 minutes earlier than the time indicated.

                19.4         The council appointed organisers reserve the right to seed players or teams in the draw for a darts event whenever necessary.

                19.5         No substitutes shall be allowed in an individual darts event.

                19.6         No substitutes shall be allowed after the first round of a team event unless the playing rules of the particular event allow for reserve members of a team to be used.

20        ORDER OF PLAY

                20.1         The order of throw shall be decided by the toss of a coin.

                20.2         The winner of the toss shall throw first for the bull in the first leg.  The winner of the throw (i.e. the closest to the bull) shall lead off in the first and alternative legs.  The opponent shall lead off in the even numbered legs.  If legs are even and a deciding leg has to be played (i.e. 1 each in best of 3 leg match, 2 each in best of 5 etc.) a fresh toss shall be made and both players shall throw for the bull again for the right to lead off.

                20.3         A dart landing in the bull shall be removed before the opponent takes his throw at the bull.

                20.4         If the second players dart dislodges the first dart, both darts shall be re thrown.

                20.5         In a match involving a team of two or more players, the throwing order must remain the same for the duration of that match and the player who threw for the "Bull" at the start of the match must also throw for the "Bull" in the deciding leg.

21        MATCH ASSIGNMENT/RESULT/RECORD CARD

                21.1         An assignment/result/record card shall be made out, at the control desk.  This card shall be presented to the match board referee by the player or team and the referee shall be responsible for ensuring that the order of play and order of throwing is strictly adhered to during the respective match.

                21.2         On conclusion of the match, the referee shall sign the assignment/result/record card, clearly indicating the winning player or team and the card shall be returned along with the losers card, immediately to the Control Desk by the winning player or team.

                21.3         The progression of players or teams shall be marked up on the draw sheet when applicable so that players or teams and spectators can view the current situation during the darts event.

21.4             When made available, all players or teams are required to wear identification at all times

                during the darts event.

22        PRACTICE

                22.1         Each player is only entitled to "6" practice darts to be thrown at the assigned match board prior to the match commencing.  No other practice darts may be thrown during that match without the prior permission of the match board referee.

                22.2         No practice shall be allowed on unassigned match boards after the darts event has officially started

22.3          Practice boards shall be provided in or adjacent to the tournament room for the exclusive use

                 of the tournament players or teams.

23        TOURNAMENT PLAY

                23.1         In tournament play, all players or teams shall play under the supervision and direction of Council appointed organisers and officials.

                23.2         No person shall be allowed within the playing area other than the board referee, scorers, and assigned players or teams.

                23.3         Only referees or callers, scorers, or markers and the dartboard indicator operators shall be allowed to be situated in front of a player actually at the "oche" throwing darts.  Such officials are expected to restrict their own movements to a minimum during the course of a players throw.

23.4.        A player retrieving their darts from the dartboard after a shot shall do so promptly and in such a manner so as not to interfere with the next player. Penalty: Loss of previous shot.

23.4.1      A player at the oche shall not commence their throw until their opponent is back behind the oche. Penalty: Loss of that shot.

23.4.2      A player’s opponent must stand at least 60 cm to the rear of the player on the oche.

                23.5         In stage finals, the player or teams shall conduct their matchplay under the supervision and direction of stage officials and in between throws shall be located in such a position as to afford an unrestricted view of the proceedings for players, officials, spectators, and in some events for television cameras.

                23.6         During match play, all players shall remain silent, and only the player at the oche shall direct enquiries to the referee or caller.  Neither shall any prompting be allowed by any other player, spectator or official.

                23.7         Any player or team in breach of rule 23.6 shall first be warned by the referee or caller, in the presence of the players Captain or Team Manager, any subsequent breach during the same match shall incur immediate disqualification of that player or team from that match.  The voicing of an enquiry, or protest to the referee or caller shall not constitute a breach of Rule 23.6.

                23.8         A player on the oche is entitled to consult with the referee or caller on the amount scored or required, at any time during the "throw", however, the player shall not be advised on how to check out.

                23.9         All requests to check scores recorded must be made before the players next throw.

                23.10       Any enquiries on scores recorded or subtraction's made will not be entered into after the conclusion of that respective leg, set, or match.

                23.11       In team tournaments where all players throw in rotation the order of players throwing must be determined and displayed on the match board before the first throw of that leg, set or match, whichever is applicable.

                23.12       Any protest must be lodged with the match board referee, or floor controller, at the time of the alleged violation and a judgement must be given on the spot before the leg, set or match is allowed to continue.  Any late protests will not be honoured.

                23.13       If a players playing equipment becomes damaged or is lost during the course of a throw then the player shall be allowed up to a maximum of three minutes in which to repair or replace the playing equipment.

                23.14       A maximum time limit of three minutes, subject to the referees permission shall be allowed in the instance of a player requiring to leave the playing area in exceptional circumstances during the course of a leg, set or match whichever is applicable.

                23.15       During a televised match, any player using offensive language or seen to be mouthing offensive language, or seen to be making offensive gestures shall be deemed to have bought the game into disrepute and shall become liable to disciplinary proceedings being taken against them.

23.16       CONDUCT During a match - players shall conduct themselves in a manner of respect for the other player (s) and shall refrain from annoying the other player (s) or using offensive language or making offensive gestures and shall refrain from any unsportsmanlike conduct (I.E. such as deliberately losing a Leg or match, deliberately delaying match play, or interfering with the throw of another player.)

23.17       Any player found by the Organisers to be in breach of Clause 23.16 shall be deemed to have brought the Sport of Darts into disrepute and shall be disqualified from any further participation in the tournament.

24        PLAYING ATTIRE

24.1          Players are not permitted to wear untidy dress while playing.  Any player untidily dressed

                may be asked to change into tidier clothing by the Council appointed organisers or officials.

                Failure to do so shall result in disqualification from the event.

                24.2         No headgear shall be worn without the prior permission of the Council appointed organisers, i.e. a member of the Sikhs would qualify for such permission.

                24.3         Players are permitted to wear sweatbands on their wrists.

                24.4         All players or teams representing their association or region shall wear their association or region approved playing attire.

                24.5         Member associations and regions are recommended to have "unmarked" playing attire available which may be used on those occasions when advertising rights are likely to be infringed.

                24.6         Closed in footwear is an essential requirement.  No open toe shoes at all will be permitted unless a medical certificate (giving reason) is supplied.

25        ADVERTISING.

                25.1         The Council appointed organisers reserve the right to protect their sponsors interests with regard to any advertising material, slogans, or logos used by players, teams or other sponsors during a Council event.

                25.2         Players and spectators in a council darts event will not be allowed to wear any clothing that bears any advertising material, slogans, or logos relating to any marketable product or concern without the prior permission of the Council appointed organisers.

                25.3         Players in Council darts events will not be allowed to use any playing equipment that bears any advertising material, slogans or logos relating to any marketable product or concern without the prior permission of the Council appointed organisers.

                25.4         The Council appointed organisers reserve the right to the use of all advertising material, slogans or logos in connection with the promotion and the organisation of any council event.

                25.5         Before any televised stage matches, the referee or any council appointed official is empowered to request any player to withdraw or remove any offending advertising material, slogans, or logos which contravene any clause in Council Playing Rule 25.2 or any television advertising rules currently in force.  In those circumstances when a player refuses to comply with such a request, then that player or team in a teams event, shall forfeit that match.

                25.6         In those circumstances when a player introduces onto stage any advertising material, slogans, or logos which contravene any Council Playing Rule or any television advertising rules currently in force, then that player or team in a teams event shall forfeit that match.

26.       ORGANISATION OF DARTS EVENTS.

                26.1         The Council reserves the right to expel any playing member or player or team or member association or region found to be in breach of the Council Playing rules as laid down in the Council authorised Rules

                26.2         Expulsion of any playing member, or team or member association or region shall only be put into effect as a result of disciplinary action being taken in accordance with the council constitution

                26.3         Any action taken in accordance with Clauses 26.1 and 26.2 shall not exclude the right of appeal of any playing member or team or member association or region.

27        AMENDMENTS/ADDITIONS.

                27.1         The Council has constitutional rights to add to or amend any of the Council playing rules at any time to meet any purpose deemed to be necessary at any time.

NEW ZEALAND CHAMPIONSHIPS

28        CONDITIONS OF ENTRY

                28.1         There shall be 10 events in the New Zealand Championships, namely, Men's Region Teams, Ladies Region Teams, Men's Singles, Ladies Singles, Men's Pairs, Ladies Pairs, Mixed Pairs, Husband & Wife, Men's Open Singles, Ladies Open Singles.

                28.2         The individual events at the championships, i.e. Singles and Pairs events shall be open entry.  Any Affiliated members wishing to compete in the Singles, Pairs, Mixed Pairs, and Husband & Wife events may enter. Association Secretaries shall take the entries and forward them to the Chief Executive on the prescribed form, with the appropriate entry fees by the advised date.  Any entries received after the closing date will not be accepted.  Entries for the Men's and Ladies New Zealand Open Singles will be taken by the organisers at the championships.

                28..3        Region Secretaries will forward the names of Men's and Ladies Region Teams to the Chief Executive on the prescribed forms by the advised date.  Any Region Team entry received after this date may not be accepted.

                28.4         Pairs entered in the championships and having played one game, must remain intact throughout that event.  Withdrawal of one member of a pair disqualifies that pair from further competition in that event.

                28..5        Any player found guilty of throwing a game will be barred from further participation in any remaining sections at that championship.  Names are to be forwarded to the Chief Executive by the appointed organisers, together with pertinent facts for further action by the Council Executive.

                28.6         In the event of a tie in any teams event, and where a result is required, the tied teams shall contest a teams game of 1 leg 1001 to determine the placings.

28.7         Each individual Association or Region shall be responsible for the travel, accommodation and conduct of their players and officials.

29        EXECUTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

                29.1         The New Zealand finals, including Region Teams and Island matches, shall be played over a period of one week, at dates recommended by the Executive of the New Zealand Darts Council and confirmed by the Council Annual General Meeting each year.

                29.2         The Chief Executive shall be responsible for the assembling of the appropriate trophies and miniatures for presentation at the conclusion of each championship.

                29.3         The New Zealand Darts Championships Finals shall be the direct responsibility of the New Zealand Darts Council Executive, who shall.

                29.4         Determine the venue and advise the Annual General Meeting no less than two years in advance, whenever possible.

                29.5         Determine the dates of the Championships.

                29.6         Own and provide all lighting, dart boards and other equipment necessary to set up and stage the finals.

                29.7         Arrange and hire suitable facilities to accommodate the finals.

                29.8         Be responsible for all expenses related to 29.6 and 29.7 above.

                29.9         Arrange any and all sponsorship related to the championships.

                29.10       Arrange a programme listing events and competitors, including all advertising and promotion of the championships.

                29.11       Arrange all catering for meals and refreshments at the finals.

                29.12       Use such championships to promote the image of darts as they see fit for the betterment of the New Zealand Darts Council membership.

30        ORDER OF PLAY

                30.1         Region Teams, Husband & Wife, Mixed Pairs, Pairs, Singles, Island Teams Games.

31        SECTION FORMAT

                31.1         Entries in each individual event shall be drawn into Sections of 6.  Each player shall play five (5) games in a round robin system.  A bye in any group shall constitute a win.  Players winning at least three (3) games qualify to enter a seeded knockout.  All games up to and including Semi Final shall be best of 5 legs, 501.  All Finals will be best of 7 legs.

32        REGIONAL TEAM FORMAT.

                32.1         An annual competition shall be held for both Men and Ladies Teams, known as the Regional Teams Championship Men and Regional Teams Championship Ladies.

                32.2         All matches shall be a round robin of singles -1 leg, 701 – 64 legs to a match with the first team to gain 33 legs declared the winner.

                32.3         Regional Teams participating in this event shall consist of up to 10 players per team, (both Men's & Ladies Teams). and shall play on a 8 per team basis.

                32.4         Managers shall have the right to play any 8 of the 10 nominated players in each match as they see fit, except that no change may be made during a match in progress.

32.5              Should a player be unable to continue for some reason in a match already in

progress then no substitutes shall be allowed, and any subsequent games still to be played by that player shall be forfeited.

                32.6         Region Teams shall be drawn into 4 groups. Group 1 shall have the previous years winner. Group 2 shall have the previous years runner up. Group 3 and 4 shall have the 3rd and 4th place from the previous year.  To decide on which group the 3rd and 4th place shall be played will be decided by the toss of a coin.  Each group shall play a round robin section.  The team with the greatest number of wins in each group shall be the group winner.  The team with the second greatest number of wins in the group shall be the runners up.  Both winners and runners up, 8 qualifiers shall enter into a one life knockout.

                32.7         The draw for the knockout section shall be.

                                Section 1 winner   Vs           Section 4 runner up

                                Section 2 winner   Vs           Section 3 runner up

                                Section 3  winner  Vs           Section 2 runner up

                                Section 4 winner   Vs           Section 1 runner up

                                                The mode of play for the knochout section shall be the same as the round robin section

                32.8         In the event of a tie in any teams match the tied teams shall contest a teams game of 1 leg, 1001 to determine the placings.

                32.9         A minimum of 3 boards shall be used for Region Team Matches.

33        INTER ISLAND MATCHES

                33.1         North Vs South Island Matches are to be played in conjunction with the New Zealand finals.

                33.2         The Island Selectors shall select North and South Island A and B teams in both Men's and Ladies sections

                33.3         The Island Teams of eight (8) per team shall be announced at a specified time during the New Zealand Singles.

                33.4         The mode of play for the Island Matches shall be a round robin of singles -1 leg, 701 – 64 legs to a match with the first team to gain 33 legs declared the winner.

                33.5         A minimum of 2 boards shall be used for each match.

                NORTH - CANT CUP

                                Trophy presented To N Z D C by Dr N North and Mr J Cant Jnr.  It is for annual competition between North Island and South Island Men's A Teams

                LADIES NORTH v SOUTH CUP

                                Trophy presented to N Z D C by Messrs J Brun, D Strang and T Ross, is for annual competition between the North Island and South Island Ladies

34        NEW ZEALAND TEAM SELECTION

                34.1         Players to represent New Zealand at any International event in which the N Z D C have agreed to participate shall be selected by the New Zealand Selectors, on merit, and the names of those players shall be announced at the conclusion of the New Zealand Championships, or at such time that is appropriate to the event being contested.

35        NEW ZEALAND UNDER 24 YEAR CHAMPIONSHIPS

                35.1         An Annual N Z under 24 year Championship shall be held.

                35.2         The venue and date will be set by the N Z D C Directors who will advise the N.Z.D.C. Annual Meeting 1 year in advance.

35.3         Championship events shall be Mixed Pairs, Men's Pairs and Singles.  Ladies Pairs and Singles.

                35.4         The Championships shall be played over two days and the order of play shall be Mixed Pairs, Pairs, then Singles.

                35.5         The age limit for the championships shall be 18 years to 23 years (inclusive).

                35.6         No player will be allowed to compete who is younger than 18 years or older than 23 years on the 31 October of that year.

                35.7         All legs played shall be 501, straight start, double finish.  All games shall be a minimum best of 3 but may be increased by the organisers prior to the start of play depending on boards available and the number of entries.

35.8              Pairs competing at the championships must be from the same Region.

                35.9         All entries in each event will be divided into sections of up to 6 players in each section.  Each Section will play a Round Robin and all players who gain 3 or more wins shall be drawn into a single life knockout to obtain the winner(s) of each championship event.  Byes in the section play will count as a win.

                35.10       The N Z D C shall provide miniatures for the winner and runner up in each championship event.

                35.11       Each individual Association or Region shall be responsible for the travel, accommodation and conduct of their players and officials.

35.12       An official entry form will be sent to Associations and Regions by the Chief Executive.  NZ Drivers Licence or any other form of legally accepted identification for each player entered must accompany the official entry form. If this is not received with the entry form, entries for those players will not be accepted.after the closing date may not be accepted. Entries normally close 4 weeks prior to the event.

35.13           As these are age group championships a copy of the Birth Certificate, NZ Passport NZ Drivers Licence or any other form of legally accepted identification for each player entered must accompany the official entry form. If this is not received with the entry form, entries for those players will not be accepted.

                35.14       The New Zealand Under 24 year championships shall be played in accordance with the N.Z.D.C. Playing Rules.

35.15           DRESS CODE: All players or teams representing their Association or Region shall wear their Association or Region approved playing attire.

35.16           CONDUCT During a match - players shall conduct themselves in a manner of respect for the other player (s) and shall refrain from annoying the other player (s) or using offensive language or making offensive gestures and shall refrain from any unsportsmanlike conduct (I.E. such as deliberately losing a Leg or match, deliberately delaying match play, or interfering with the throw of another player.)

35.17           Any player found by the Organisers to be in breach of Clause 23.16 shall be deemed to have brought the Sport of Darts into disrepute and shall be disqualified from any further participation in the tournament.

36        NEW ZEALAND JUNIOR AND YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS

                36.1         An Annual N Z Junior  and Youth Championships shall be held

                36.2         The venue for the championships shall alternate between the North & South Island

                36.3         The venue will be decided 1 year in advance at the N Z D C Annual Meeting.

                36.4         When an Association makes application to host the championships, the N Z D C Liaison Officer shall inspect and report on the facilities available.

                36.5         Where more than 1 Junior League exists in a Region, Region Finals shall be played.

                                Qualifiers from each Region to the New Zealand Finals shall consist of up to

                                Boys Singles 4. Girls Singles 4. Boys Pairs, 2 Pair. Girls Pairs, 2 pair.

                                Mixed Pairs, 4 pairs, in each age group.

                36.6         New Zealand titles will be played for in each age group.

                36.7         The order of play will be Mixed Pair, Junior Singles / Youth Pairs,Youth Singles / Junior Pairs, Championship Team matches.

                36.8         The age limit for the N.Z Junior Championships is, 9 yrs to 13 yrs of age (Inclusive).

                                No junior player is to be older than 13 years on 31 October.

                36.9         The age limit for the N Z Youth Champioship is 14 yrs to 17 yrs

                                No Youth player is to be older than 17 yrs on 31 October.

                36.10       Competitors must play in their own age group.

                36.11       Because both these championships are played in the School Holidays, the date that the

                                championships are held could change from year to year, also the youth age group

                                needs to fall into line with the World Darts Federation rules, the age deadline has been

                                set at 31 October each year.

                36.12       In the Junior  age group all games will be played best of 3 legs, 301.  In the Youth age group all games will be played best of 3 legs, 501.  All games to be straight start, double finish.

                36.13       Any pairs or mixed pairs competing at the championship must be from the same Region

                36.14       Each individual Region or Association is to be responsible for the travel, accommodation and conduct of their Junior and Youth League members and their officials.

                36.15       At all times during the championships, including any function, the Region or Association, Manager or Chaperone, or nominated assistant must be present to supervise their players.

                36.16       An official Entry Form will be sent to all Regions by the Chief Executive.  This form with the Region entries must be sent prior to the closing date, to the Chief Executive. If this entry form is not received by the Chief Executive by the prescribed date the entries may not be accepted.  Entries normally close 4 weeks prior to the event.

35.18          A copy of a Birth Certificate, NZ Passport, NZ Drivers Licence or any other form of legally accepted identification for each player entered must accompany the official entry form. If this is not received with the entry form, entries for those players will not be accepted.

35.19           All qualifiers for the championship finals shall be divided into sections of up to 6 players in

                each section.  No two players or pairs from the same Region, as far as is practicable, will be

                placed in the same section.  Each Section will play a round Robin and all players who gain

                three (3) wins or more shall be drawn into a single life knockout to obtain the winner of each

                championship.  Byes in the sections will constitute a win.

The non qualifiers in each event (Junior and Youth) are to be drawn into a single life knockout for consolation prizes supplied by the Host Association or Region.

                                Where the number of entries in any event is 9 or less, then a round robin shall be contested by these entrants and the result of this round robin shall decide the winner and runner-up.

                36.19       The N Z D C shall provide miniatures for the winner and runner up in each championship event, Championship Team matches.

                36.20       The Senior N Z D C Executive attending the Championship will carry sufficient 180 badges to present to any player who scores their first 180.

                36.21       Following the individual events, the Junior & Youth Selectors will select both Boys and Girls Championship teams in both age groups.  Most host associations or region arrange sponsors to supply T shirts for the 4 ChampionshipTeams.  This is not mandatory but it is hoped that all hosts will make an extra effort to arrange this.

                36.22       The 180 trophy will be awarded to the player scoring the most 180s during the championships.  If                                 there are one or more on the same number the player scoring the first 180 will be awarded the trophy.

                36.23       The Personality trophy and Best Dressed Trophy winners will be selected by the N Z D.C. Executive present at the championships.

36.24           The New Zealand Junior and Youth Championships are played in accordance with the

                 N Z D C Playing Rules.

                36.25       The organisers of the championships will ensure the smooth running of the event and that the non playing spectators and officials are kept far enough back so as to not hinder the players during their match.

36.26       The Junior and Youth Championships are "Smoke Free".  Smoking is not allowed inside the venue.

                36.27       No alcohol will be sold or brought into the venue during the championships

36.28           DRESS CODE: All players or teams representing their Association or Region shall wear their Association or Region approved playing attire.

36.29           CONDUCT During a match - players shall conduct themselves in a manner of respect for the other player (s) and shall refrain from annoying the other player (s) or using offensive language or making offensive gestures and shall refrain from any unsportsmanlike conduct (I.E. such as deliberately losing a Leg or match, deliberately delaying match play, or interfering with the throw of another player.)

36.30           Any player found by the Organisers to be in breach of Clause 23.16 shall be deemed to have brought the Sport of Darts into disrepute and shall be disqualified from any further participation in the tournament.

37        INTER ASSOCIATION PLAY.

                37.1         All inter association play under the direct control of the N Z D C for specified trophies shall be conducted on a round robin of pairs, and one round of singles, best of 3 legs, 501.

                37.2         All other representative matches between affiliated associations may be played to a format mutually agreed to by the competing associations.

38        180 BADGES.

                38.1         The games or fixtures during which a player may qualify for a 180 badge are as follows.

                38.2         Any event at any stage of the New Zealand Championships

                38.3         Any game in which the player is representing the N Z D C

                38.4         Any game under the direct control of an affiliated association or region of the N Z D C.

                38.5         Any match incorporating the above in which the games being played do not exceed 1001.

                38.6         180 Badges are to be issued by the Island Badge Controller as follows,

                38.7         As gained up to Ten (10)

                38.8         From 10 to 100 after every 10, i.e. 20/30/40/50/60/70/80/90

                38.9         From 100 onwards issued in multiples of 100, i.e. 200/300/400 etc.

                38.10       At the time of gaining the 180 the player must be a registered member of the N Z.D.C.

                38.11       The game must finish on a double.

                38.12       The Secretary or Badge Controller of the Association with whom the player is registered, shall be responsible for forwarding the 180 claim with previous badge or insert, to the Island Badge Controller.  Claims received without the previous badge or insert will not be accepted.  180 claims will only be valid for 6 months from the date of scoring.

39        CHALLENGE TROPHIES

                39.1        CHALLENGE TROPHY RULES

                Challenges for all N Z D C Trophies will be dealt with as follows:

                Challenges for all trophies must be lodged with the holders no later than 30^th April each year

                                The holders will accept as many challenges as they can handle but must accept at least 5 challenges per season

                                When selecting challenges precedence must be given to those associations who did not gain successful challenges the previous year.

                                The holders must consult with the Chief Executive N Z D C when considering  challenges for the current year.  He will keep a register of challenges lodged and challenges accepted and will be able to ensure that new ones are accepted correctly.

                It is expected that the challenge list could be finalised within one month i.e. end of May or sooner.

                                In the event of a challenger winning a trophy during the season the order of preference on the challenge list will be:

                                                Associations with firm fixtures already arranged with the new holder

                                                Associations who had challenges accepted by the previous holder

                                                Associations who had their challenges declined by the previous holder

                                                New challengers

                                To maintain the minimum requirements of at least 5 challenges per year the new holders will be expected to meet that requirement - i.e. if the previous holder lost the trophy on the second challenge, the new holder would be expected to accept at least 3 challenges.  The requirement to consult with the Chief Executive before the final acceptance of challenges will still apply

40        BEN HILL MEMORIAL TROPHY

                Presented by the Kawerau Darts association, to be administered by the N Z D C and is for Men's competition between North Island Associations, affiliated to the N Z D C.

                40.1         Games to be played on a challenge basis.

                40.2         Any financial affiliated North Island association is entitled to challenge.

                40.3         No challenge is to be accepted for play during N Z Championships Finals.

                40.4         All Council fixtures are to take precedence over dates set for trophy challenges.

                40.5         Venues for the matches are to be mutually agreed upon by both the holder and the challenger.

                40.6         All challenges are to be played in accordance with N Z D C playing rules.

                40.7         The Ben Hill Trophy can be played for in conjunction with any other trophy.

                40.8         Mode of Play shall be Round Robin of Pairs and 8 Singles

                40.9         In the event of a 12 all draw, a teams game of 1001 will be played.

41        FRANKLIN TROPHY.

                        For competition between affiliated North Island Association Ladies Teams and played under the same rules as the BEN HILL MEMORIAL TROPHY.

42        NORTH ISLAND INTER ASSOCIATION CHALLENGE SHIELDS

                Played under the same rules as the BEN HILL MEMORIAL TROPHY, with the following additions.

                42.1         Can be competed for by any number of teams subject to how many teams the host association can accommodate.

                42.2         Challengers are to be notified how many teams the host association is accepting when notifying date of fixture.

                42.3         When the number of teams cannot be agreed, the matter shall be referred to the Council Liaison Officer for decision.

                42.4         The result shall be on aggregate points, one point per game.

                42.5         In the event of a draw a team’s game of 1001 shall be played by each team competing. In the              event of an overall draw following a team’s game, if the result is still a draw, then the holder retains the shield.

                42.6         The holders shall be responsible for any damage to the Trophy.

43        SCOTT CUP

                Presented by the late Mr W Scott for competition between affiliated South Island Associations on a challenge basis.

                43.1         For play between Men's teams only.

                43.2         Played under N Z D C Playing Rules.

                43.3         One challenge per association each season.  The losing holders can challenge winners.

                43.4         "A" Team game only.

                43.5         Mode of Play shall be Round Robin of Pairs and 8 Singles

                43.6         To be played at a venue decided by the holders.

                43.7         Holders are responsible for any damage to trophy.

                43.8         Only players affiliated to N Z D C may play in teams.

43.9              The Cup can be played for in conjunction with any other trophy.

44        McNAMARA CUP

                To be played for by Ladies Teams from South Island Affiliated Association.

                Rules the same as SCOTT CUP except "Men" replaced by "Ladies".

45        SPENCE CHALLENGE CUP

                45.1         Any South Island association Affiliated to N Z D C is entitled to challenge.

                45.2         Games to be played on a challenge basis.

                45.3         Mode of Play shall be Round Robin of Mixed Pairs and 8 Singles

                45.4         Teams to consist of 4 men 4 ladies.

                45.5         Ladies to play Ladies, Men to play Men, in singles.

                45.6         Mixed Pairs to be played Round Robin.

                45.7         All games to be played under N Z D C playing rules.

                45.8         Holders are responsible for damage to trophy.

                45.9         To be played at venue decided by holders.

45.10           "A" Team players only.

46        CLARK CHALLENGE TROPHY

                46.1         For play between affiliated Junior League Teams

                46.2         To be played under N Z D C playing rules.

                46.3         Mode of Play Round Robin of Pairs and 8 Singles

                46.4         Teams of 8 players, regardless of sex.

                46.5         To be played anywhere as agreed to by holders.

                46.6         Holders responsible for any damage to trophy.

                46.7         No player to be younger than 9 yrs or older than 17 yrs on 31st October of that year.

47        REGION FORMATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES

                 47.1         Each Island is divided into "REGIONS" and each Region has within its boundaries a number of Darts Associations who must be affiliated to the N Z D C and the Region..

                47.2         The number of Regions is set at 16.  Boundaries are negotiable but the number is not.

                47.3         Region Committees consist of two representatives from each Association within the Region.   This number may be increased by mutual agreement  provided that each Association has equal representation.

                47.4         Officers of the Region i.e. President, Secretary, Treasurer, may be appointed as additional members of the committee, however voting on any matters shall only be by those delegates representing their association, except where voting on any matter may be equal, then the Chair will have the right to a casting vote whether the Chair person be an association representative or an appointed member.

                47.5         Region Committees are a Sub Committee of the N Z D C and as such work under the rules and constitution of the Council.  Copies of all Region Committee meeting minutes are to be forwarded to the N Z D C Chief Executive.  Region Secretaries will receive copies of all pertinent correspondence.

                47.6         The Region Committees shall determine the method of obtaining Region Teams and it shall be the duty of Region Secretaries to ensure that the names of the Region teams are in the hands of the Chief Executive by the due date.

                47.7         Region committees will be responsible for their own finances and committees have the power to set such levies as may be considered reasonable to cover the general administration and running costs of the Committee.

                47.8         It shall not be a requirement of a Region committee to raise or provide funds for players representing their Region at the New Zealand Championships.  Region Committees, may  elect to provide funds for this purpose, however these funds shall not be provided by way of levies unless this method is a unanimous decision by all the associations within the Region.

                47.9         Notwithstanding the above, normal meeting procedures will apply to all meetings and where a quorum exists then the decision of that meeting shall be binding on all associations whether an association was represented at the meeting or not.

                47.10       Where irreconcilable differences exist, the matter shall be referred to the Councils Local Liaison Officer who shall convene a meeting of the Region and where the Liaison Officer is required to make a ruling then that ruling shall be binding

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