A new-look New Zealand Women's Sevens team assembles in Auckland this week ahead of travel to Fiji for their first match for 2012.

Coach Sean Horan and his team of 12 women - a mix of experienced Black Ferns and talented athletes new to the game - will be in Auckland for two days before they depart to compete in the Oceania Women's Sevens Championship being held in Fiji on 3 and 4 August.

"This is a very exciting time for our new-look team. We are excited about the opportunity to test ourselves against other Oceania nations and we expect it will be a good challenge for us.

"While we are going into this tournament as prepared as we can be, we are mindful our development programme is still at the early stage as we build towards the 2016 Olympics," Horan said.

The team assembles in Auckland from Monday evening at the Millennium Institute of Sport and Health on the North Shore, before flying to Fiji on Wednesday.

Referee Brigitte Tyler of Wellington will also represent New Zealand having earned whistle duty at the Oceania tournament.

As announced last week the New Zealand Women's team is:

Shakira Baker

Kendra Cocksedge

Moana Forbes

Sarah Goss (vc)

Charlene Halapua

Linda Itunu

Huriana Manuel (c)

Kayla McAlister

Tyla Nathan-Wong

Hazel Tubic

Ruby Tui

Portia Woodman