Tennis in the Nelson Bays region dates back to the late 19th century, though the association has been operating in its present form since 1997 organising and administering events and programmes for 13 affliated clubs in the area.  Over the past 10 years player numbers have increased, both senior and junior interclub are established programmes on the annual calendar.  Each club now employs their own coach; programmes such as  'Have a Go' day, Active Post Tennis Hot Shots Community Play, Schools and Coaching are part of the clubs timetables.  Representative fixtures are held annually for all ages groups between Marlborough, Canterbury, Wellington, Southland and Kapiti Coast/Hutt Valley.