Some of the leading contenders are expected to come from the rhythmic disciplines.
Hopes are high for level six gymnasts Zara Gallivan and Caitlin Thomson, and Green Island level nine gymnast Rosie Hardie is another who is expected to shine.
Caitlin (13) and Zara (12) are coached by Kieta McGowan, who feels her charges have been showing some promising signs.
''I would expect that they would do quite well,'' McGowan said.
''They're both driven and dedicated. They want to do well and they have improved their performance throughout the season to achieve well.
"They compete against each other which is good because they push each other.''
For the first time in about 10 years, two athletes from Oamaru will contest the national event.
Caitlin Middlemiss and Samantha Atley, from Pathfinders Gymnastics Club, will compete under the Aorangi banner. Heather Smith is going as women's artistic gymnastics coach.
Queenstown's Ana-Carolina Lozano will represent Southland.
It is thought to be the first time in nine years an athlete from Queenstown Gymnastics Club will compete at the national championships.
Balclutha Gymnastics Club will also be represented, and seven athletes from the new club in Alexandra - Action Gym Sports Academy - will be competing, which is a promising sign for the fledgling club.
