Kennards Hire partners with North Harbour Rugby for 2025 and Beyond

As the 2025 Community Rugby season approaches, Kennards Hire is thrilled to announce the renewal of their Major Partner sponsorship with North Harbour Rugby Union (NHRU) to the end of 2026.

This marks an exciting milestone in a partnership that has been going strong since 2018. Kennards Hire, which opened its doors in New Zealand in 2012, has played a pivotal role in supporting rugby at the grassroots level. Now, as they extend their partnership with NHRU, their presence will continue to shape and elevate the community rugby landscape in Auckland. 

 

A Shared Vision of Community and Growth

For NHRU, this extension is about more than just a sponsorship agreement—it's a reflection of shared values. Adrian Donald, Chief Executive of NHRU, said, “As we begin our ‘40th Anniversary of Improving Lives Through Rugby’, we’re incredibly grateful to continue our alignment with a brand who shares our value in growing a strong community. The shared values between NHRU and Kennards Hire, played a major factor in our decision to re-sign with them”.

Kennards Hire’s deep connection to the community and its passion for rugby resonates with the union’s mission to promote and develop the game, both on and off the field.

 

Growing Stronger Together

Tom Kimber, General Manager of Kennards Hire NZ, shared his excitement about the ongoing partnership. 

“We’re excited to renew our partnership and continue supporting the game that means so much to all Kiwis. Rugby is a game that brings communities together, and the opportunity for Kennards Hire to help grow the game from the ground up is something we’re passionate about.” 

Since 2022, Kennards Hire has also held the naming rights for both junior and senior club rugby in the region, cementing their commitment to supporting the development of local talent and strengthening community bonds. 

 

What’s Next for the Partnership?

Looking ahead, the partnership will continue to offer exciting opportunities for local rugby players and fans alike. For starters, NHRU will continue to name a Kennards Hire Game of the Round every week in the Premier 1 competition, spotlighting the best matches and encouraging even more community engagement. 

In addition, the Kennards Hire Real Resilience Award will again be presented to deserving players across all NHRU Junior Rugby competitions. The award celebrates the dedication, perseverance, and teamwork that define youth rugby, with coaches nominating players for this award at the end of each match. 

Tyrone Elkington-MacDonald, Head of Rugby Engagement & Participation for NHRU, said, “The impact that our Partnership with Kennards Hire has on our community is something that we can never take for granted. 

“Our community works tirelessly from season-to-season to get our participants onto the field, and Kennards Hire’s commitment to the community games ensures that North Harbour Rugby can continue to grow the grassroots game and ‘Improve Lives Through Rugby’. Without their generous support, the running of our community game wouldn’t be possible.” A 

 

Bright Future for Rugby in North Harbour

This renewed partnership represents more than just an agreement between two organisations—it’s a commitment to building a rugby community that is stronger, more inclusive, and connected than ever. With Kennards Hire’s continued support, NHRU will be able to keep developing the game, fostering talent, and creating more opportunities for people of all ages to get involved in the sport we all love. 

Stay up to date with all things North Harbour Rugby by following @harbourrugby, @harbourrugbycommunity_ or visiting https://www.harbourrugby.co.nz/