The play-off tournament was used as a test event for New Zealand to host prior to the Women's World Cup.

New Zealand and guests Argentina also played friendlies against participating teams and each other as part of the event.

[1] On 24 December 2020, the Bureau of the FIFA Council approved the slot allocation and format of the play-off tournament.

The play-off tournament was held in New Zealand as a test event prior to their hosting of 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.

The winner of the semi-final advanced to the play-off final, playing against the seeded team for a spot in the Women's World Cup.

[3] New Zealand and Argentina (confirmed as guests on 8 December 2022) participated in friendly matches as part of the event, first against one of the seeded teams in Groups A and B, and then twice against each other.

[3] Australia were originally planned as co-hosts of the play-offs, with their national team intended to participate in friendly matches.

Players in the final squad could be replaced due to serious injury or illness up to 24 hours prior to the team's first match.