How it works
Easy to learn.
Hard to stop playing.
A coach feeds every ball, so you're always hitting and never waiting. One pair holds the net, the other tries to get past them. Simple rules, loads of rallies, plenty of laughs.
1 · The coach feeds
No serves. Every point starts with a feed to the Defenders on the baseline.
2 · Only Aggressors score
The net pair wins points, usually with a volley. Defenders have to get it past them, and no lobbing the first ball.
3 · Get passed? Run back
Beaten at the net, the Aggressors sprint to the baseline and become the Defenders.
Who it's for
Fun for every level.
You don't have to know exactly where you fit. Start with what you'd like from your tennis.
The Club Competitor
Plays every week, hates losing, wants a sharper doubles test.
The Comeback Kid
Racquet's been in the cupboard a while. Ready to get the legs moving again.
The Social Smasher
Here for the laughs and the post-game drink, but still wants to win.
The Curious Newbie
Never heard of DnA? Perfect. David will point you to the right session.
Meet David
The man who brought
DnA to New Zealand.
David Mustard created DnA tennis in New Zealand. Before that he represented his country in Davis Cup and played the ATP tour. Now he runs DnA events that bring players together from right across Auckland.
- Davis CupRepresented New Zealand
- ATP TourFormer touring professional
- Herne BayHome club: Herne Bay Rackets Club
- Club Coach AwardTennis Auckland, 2025–26
FAQs
Got questions?
What exactly is DnA tennis?
Defenders and Aggressors: a fast-paced doubles game where a coach feeds every ball, the Aggressors hold the net, and the Defenders try to get the ball past them.
How is it different from normal doubles?
No serves: the coach feeds every point to the Defenders. Only the Aggressors, at the net, can win points, usually with a volley. The Defenders' first hit can't be a lob. If they get it past the net pair, the Aggressors run back to the baseline and become the Defenders.
Is DnA coaching, a social hit or a competition?
A bit of all three. Competitive points, run by a coach, in a social setting.
What playing level do I need?
Sessions run at three levels, so you're always playing people around your standard.
Social: you can rally from the back of the court and enjoy a hit, but don't play many matches yet.
Club: you rally comfortably, have a reliable serve and play social or club sets regularly.
Competitive: you play interclub or tournaments and hit with pace, spin and control.
Can I come on my own, or do I need a partner?
Either works. Come solo, bring a partner or bring a group.
Do I have to be a club member?
No. Club members and guests are both welcome.
Where in Auckland will I play?
Sessions currently run at Herne Bay Rackets Club, with more Auckland locations coming soon.
When are sessions, how long are they, and what do they cost?
Sessions run for about two hours. Dates, times and prices are listed in the events calendar below.
What should I bring, and what happens if it rains?
Your racquet, court shoes, water and your competitive streak. If rain cancels a session, we'll text and email you beforehand and you'll get a refund or credit.
Can I arrange something for a group?
Yes. Email [email protected] with your group size and preferred dates and we'll set something up.
Find a game
Ready to play?
- 01Pick a session
Browse upcoming sessions and tournaments below. - 02Book on Luma
Register for your spot in a couple of taps. - 03Turn up and play
Bring a racquet. The coach does the feeding.
Upcoming in Auckland
Book your spot straight through the calendar. Nothing that suits yet? Join the mailing list below and we'll let you know when new dates drop.