New Zealand men's national ice hockey team

The New Zealand men's national ice hockey team, known as the Ice Blacks, represents the country internationally. As of 2024, it holds the 41st position in the IIHF World Rankings. The nickname follows the pattern of other New Zealand national teams linked to the All Blacks.

History

A 2016 documentary titled Ice Blacks explored the team’s history, its rivalry with Australia, and the challenges of competing internationally due to New Zealand’s geographic isolation from traditional ice hockey nations. The team has competed in Division II of the World Championships since 2001. Under coach Jeff Bonazzo (2007–2011), New Zealand finished second in their group at the 2011 Division II tournament, winning three of five games and missing promotion to Division I after finishing behind host nation and rival Australia.

New Zealand has hosted several IIHF World Championship events. In 2003, Auckland hosted Division III, where the Ice Blacks won their first gold medal and earned promotion to Division II. Auckland also hosted the 2006 Division II Group B tournament, but New Zealand finished last and was relegated back to Division III.

Dunedin hosted the 2009 Division III tournament, where the Ice Blacks won all five games, captured their third gold medal, and returned to Division II. Auckland hosted the 2017 Division II Group B event, where New Zealand finished second behind China, earning their fourth silver medal. Dunedin is scheduled to host the 2025 Division II Group B tournament.

The team’s World Championship record spans from 1987, when they placed 27th (3rd in Pool D), through various divisions. Notable finishes include first place in Division III in 2003, 2007, and 2009, and second place in Division II Group A in 2011 and Division II Group B in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2024, and 2026. The 2020, 2021, and 2022 tournaments were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with cancellations or withdrawals. As of 12 April 2026, the team’s all-time record against other nations is documented, and its all-time record against other clubs is recorded as of 15 April 2019.