You can join NZ chess teams on both platforms. Click here for a list
There are tournaments only for school children, and tournaments open to everyone - adults and schoolchildren. Some tournaments ill have a division so you can choose an easier level to play. Tournaments tend to be very competitive and have an entry fee.
ChessPower runs tournaments just for schoolchildren. Click here for a list of events. We particularly recommend the Sarapu Cup. The next OTB Sarapu Cup is scheduled for April, if covid proetection restrictions allow. The Sarapu Cup has divisions and we recommend entering the easiest Pawn division for your first time.
The New Zealand Chess Federation (NZCF) lists tournaments you can enter. This list is currently very limited due to covid protection restrictions. The NZCF also runs an interschool competition which requires a team of four from a school.
Joining a chess club is an excellent way to get OTB experience. Many clubs have a time for school children, and offer coaching. Even if you have to play with adults, there will be a wide range of skill levels. Many school children regularly play with adults at chess clubs.