Otago will defend its national title on its home court after delays in the Stadium Southland rebuild forced Netball New Zealand to shift the national championship finals from Invercargill to Dunedin.
The tournament finals are scheduled for late September-early October and will now be held at the Edgar Centre.
Former coach Deb Tasi-Cordtz, who last year led Otago to its first national title since 1998, said it would be a big advantage.
''I'm excited I'll be able to sit down and watch now,'' she said.
''It is definitely an advantage to be playing at home. The home support means a lot and it is great for the youngsters being able to come and watch.
''Last year we had two home games and it just wasn't enough to spark a bit of interest.''
Between family commitments and holding down a full-time job, Tasi-Cordtz has decided to take a step back and her assistant, Lauren Piebenga, will take over the reins.
While Otago's gain is Invercargill's loss, Netball South chief executive Sue Clark was pleased the area has been able to retain the event.
''Absolutely. It is a big event.''
It is one of several events which will be lost to Invercargill. The city had already lost a netball international. And with the facility not expected to be complete until the end of October, an international artist booked to perform in August had to be cancelled and a performance by the Edinburgh Military Tattoo has also been canned.
Dunedin last hosted the national championships in 2005. Otago finished fifth.
