The women's Black Sticks' first matches since defeat in the Olympic bronze-medal playoff have been confirmed for December.

Six tests against lowly-ranked India will be played in Hawke's Bay, Palmerston North and Wellington between December 8-15.

India are 12th in the women's world order while the Black Sticks have jumped to third since finishing fourth at London 2012.

The New Zealand team will be announced after a selection camp next month.

The current wider squad of 35 players will be split into a national squad, comprising of 25 first team players and a development squad of 10 players.

Olympians Cathryn Finlayson, Clarissa Eshuis, Melody Cooper and national squad member Lucy Talbot have already said they are unavailable for 2013. The quartet are not retiring, but wish to pursue other options, such as study and employment.

National women's coach Mark Hager said he is likely to use the Indian visit as a way of introducing younger players to international hockey.

"With four senior players having an extended break and where we are at in an Olympic cycle, it is a good chance to expose players to international competition," Hager said.

Black Sticks Women vs India

Test 1: Saturday 8 December, 3pm, Napier

Test 2: Sunday 9 December, 3pm, Napier

Test 3: Tuesday 11 December, 6.30pm, Palmerston North

Test 4: Wednesday 12 December, 6.30pm, Palmerston North

Test 5: Friday 14 December, 7pm, Wellington

Test 6: Saturday 15 December, 6pm, Wellington

- © Fairfax NZ News