G’day, mates! So, you’re thinking about getting a dart board? Brilliant idea. Whether it’s for the classic Kiwi garage setup, a dedicated games room, or just a bit of fun with the whānau, a good dartboard is a source of endless entertainment. But walk into a store or browse online, and you’re hit with a heap of options, brands, and price tags. It’s enough to make your head spin faster than a Robin Hood shot!
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. This guide will cut through the noise. We’ll break down everything you need to know—from the different types of boards to what you can expect to pay here in New Zealand. Our goal is to help you find the perfect board that offers the best value for your hard-earned dollar, so you can spend less time researching and more time hitting those 180s.
First Things First: Choosing Your Dart Board Type
Not all dartboards are created equal. The type you choose will dramatically affect your playing experience, durability, and overall enjoyment. Let’s get the lowdown on the two main contenders.
Bristle Boards: The Gold Standard for Serious Players
When you picture a professional dartboard, you’re thinking of a bristle board. Traditionally made from sisal fibres (a type of agave plant), these are the boards used in every pub tournament and professional championship worldwide.
- How they work: The densely packed fibres allow a sharp steel-tip dart to penetrate cleanly. The key magic trick is that the fibres then close up behind the dart, making the board incredibly self-healing and long-lasting.
- Who it’s for: Anyone serious about darts. If you plan on practising regularly, hosting competitive games, or just want the authentic experience, a bristle board is the only way to go.
- Dart Type: You must use steel-tip darts.
Electronic Soft-Tip Boards: The Modern Tech Option
Electronic boards are all about flashy features and social fun. They have a plastic face with numerous small holes for the darts to lodge into.
- How they work: These boards are packed with sensors that automatically score your throws. They feature a multitude of built-in games (301, Cricket, Count Up, etc.), often have voice and sound effects, and can even connect online for play against others.
- Who it’s for: Families, social players, or those with limited space who need a board that’s safer for kids (using soft-tip darts). They’re fantastic for parties.
- Dart Type: You must use plastic or soft-tip darts.
Pro Tip: While you can find cheap electronic boards at toy stores, investing in a quality model from a known brand like Gran Board or Dartslive is crucial for reliability and accurate scoring.
How Much Should You Spend on a Dart Board in NZ?
Your budget is the biggest deciding factor. Here’s a rough guide to what your money gets you in the current New Zealand market.
Essential Gear to Go With Your Board
Your board is useless without the right kit! Remember to factor these into your overall setup cost.
- Darts: Steel-tip or soft-tip, available in various weights (18g-26g is common). It’s best to try a few different weights to see what suits your throw.
- Surround: A must-have for protecting your walls from stray throws! A good foam surround will save your gib board and your relationship with your flatmates.
- Lighting: Proper lighting eliminates shadows, making the board easier to see and reducing eye strain. A dedicated dartboard light ring or cabinet with built-in lights is a game-changer.
For a deeper dive on this, check out our guide on how to set up the ultimate darts man cave.
Your 5-Step Checklist to Buying the Right Board
Follow these steps to make a choice you won’t regret.
- Decide Your Play Style: Serious practice or social fun? This chooses your path: Bristle (Steel-Tip) or Electronic (Soft-Tip).
- Set Your Total Budget: Don’t just budget for the board. Remember darts, a surround, and possibly a light.
- Stick to Trusted Brands: For bristle, you can’t go wrong with Winmau or Unicorn. For electronic, look at Gran Board or Dartslive. This is where expertise and trustworthiness come into play – these brands have proven their quality over decades.
- Read NZ-Based Reviews: See what other Kiwis are saying. Was shipping fast? How was the customer service? This speaks to the authoritativeness of the retailer.
- Buy from a Specialist: While warehouse stores are tempting, buying from a dedicated shop like Darts Online NZ means you get expert advice and access to quality products that will actually last.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: A quality sisal bristle board used in a home setting should easily last 2-5 years with regular rotation. Cheap boards might be ruined in under a year.
A: Absolutely not. This will severely damage the electronic board’s surface. Always use the correct dart type for your board.
A: Regularly! Rotate it a quarter-turn every couple of weeks if you play frequently. This ensures the wear is evenly distributed, especially on the popular 20 segment.
A: The official height is 1.73m from the floor to the centre of the bullseye. The throwing distance is 2.37m from the face of the board to the oche (throw line). For a complete setup guide, the Darts Regulation Authority has all the details.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dart board doesn’t have to be a tricky game of chance. By understanding the types, knowing what a fair price looks like in NZ, and following our simple checklist, you’re all set to make a brilliant choice. Remember, investing in a quality board from a trusted brand is investing in years of enjoyment. There’s nothing quite like the satisfying thud of a dart hitting a premium sisal board.
