The city is hosting the New Zealand Table Tennis Nationals at the ILT Stadium Southland.
Club chief executive Warren Ogilvie said the last time Southland hosted the event was about 20 years ago.
"It’s very important that we share the venues and the locations of the national events throughout the country.
"So, we’ve been delighted to utilise the facility here.
"We need a big stadium to hold at least 18 to 20 tables and this venue is ideal."
The event started with under-13, 15 and 19 girls and boys teams last Saturday.
Senior teams began competing today.
The senior individuals category, including the coveted New Zealand men’s and women’s open singles, will be contested from Friday to Sunday.
There were about 30 players from Southland among the 250 athletes from across the country as well as from Cook Islands and New Caledonia, Mr Ogilvie said.
"They’re certainly enjoying this experience and gaining great table time with our Kiwis."
Invercargill pupil Abigail Bottger was taking part in a national event for the first time.
The 13-year-old had been playing table tennis for about three years.
She was pleased to be able to have such an important competition held in her backyard.
