Darts fans in New Zealand are in for a spectacular showdown this August, as the 2025 SkyCity New Zealand Darts Masters returns bigger, bolder, and richer than ever. Set to take place at Auckland’s Spark Arena on the 15th and 16th of August, the event promises two days of elite competition, featuring some of the game’s most electrifying names fighting for a share of the £100,000 prize pool.
The move to Auckland from Hamilton marks a new chapter for the tournament, as the World Series of Darts brings its global tour to one of New Zealand’s most iconic venues. The prize fund has been significantly increased from last year’s £60,000, reflecting the tournament’s growing prestige and global appeal. With £30,000 on offer for the winner, there’s more than just pride on the line.
Leading the charge is reigning world champion Luke Humphries, who returns to New Zealand as the defending champion. Humphries produced a memorable performance in 2024, clawing back from 6–2 down in the semi-finals against teenage sensation Luke Littler before storming to an 8–2 victory in the final over Damon Heta. That win marked Humphries’ first World Series title — and now, he’s back for more.
“I’ve got great memories of last year,” Humphries said. “It was a turning point for me, and to win it in the way I did gave me a lot of belief. But this year, the competition’s even tougher.”
That competition begins with Luke Littler, the 17-year-old prodigy whose meteoric rise has taken the darts world by storm. Littler has already cemented himself as a major force, winning titles across the tour and drawing massive crowds wherever he plays. Known for his fearless approach and incredible finishing, Littler is widely tipped to be the future of the sport — and perhaps the present.
“I’ve learned a lot in the last year,” Littler said. “I came close in New Zealand and want to go one better this time. I feel ready.”
Joining them at the top of the bill is former world champion Gerwyn Price, whose competitive fire and powerful scoring make him a threat in any draw. Known for thriving under pressure, Price is eager to add another major title to his résumé after a mixed run of recent form.
The tournament will feature 16 players — eight PDC stars and eight regional qualifiers from New Zealand and Australia. The regional contingent includes familiar faces like Simon Whitlock, Haupai Puha, Jonny Tata, Mark Cleaver, John Hurring, Ben Robb, Dean Reyland, and Gordon Mathers, the latter earning his spot through the Australian qualifying event.
The format is traditional leg-play, with early rounds contested over the best of 11 legs, semi-finals best of 13, and the final going the distance with a best-of-15-leg format. Each stage of the tournament carries its own rewards: runners-up receive £16,000, semi-finalists earn £10,000, quarter-finalists get £5,000, and first-round competitors take home £1,750.
The return to Auckland brings with it fresh energy and a chance for the New Zealand crowd to experience world-class darts up close. With a stacked lineup, increased prize money, and rising global interest, the 2025 New Zealand Darts Masters is shaping up to be one of the year’s standout events.
Whether it’s a rematch between Humphries and Littler, a Price resurgence, or a surprise run from one of the Oceania qualifiers, fans can expect fireworks — and a champion who earns every pound of their prize.
Leave a Reply