Kennards Hire’s new Napier Branch partners with KidsCan to support 50 local schools

Family-owned equipment hire company, Kennards Hire, has recently opened its’ very first branch in the heart of Napier. This will see it strengthening its role in the local community and supporting the transformation of almost 50 schools across the Napier and Hawke’s Bay region, thanks to its “Buddy School Program” in partnership with KidsCan.

The new opening marks Kennards Hire’s 30th branch in New Zealand, as the company remains steadfast in its commitment to continue expanding its network across the country and supporting industry growth, especially during what has been a more challenging year for the wider hire and construction sector.

Matt Cross, Kennards Hire Napier Branch Manager, said, “Already, our Napier customers have shown great interest in our equipment and service offerings, and we’re excited to further connect with more local businesses and residents while building strong connections within the wider community."

Alongside providing equipment hire solutions to local DIYers, tradies and construction projects, Kennards Hire’s latest branch will also support the local communities by actively working with schools in the region through the “Kennards Hire KidsCan Buddy School Program”.

In partnership with KidsCan, Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading charity dedicated to helping children affected by poverty, the “Buddy School Program” provides essential hire equipment free of charge, empowering schools to maintain and enhance their grounds and facilities. From lawnmowers for large areas to mini loaders for moving bark and sand, the programme provides invaluable resources to create safe and vibrant environments for students to learn and grow.

Serving as a central hub for 18 KidsCan-affiliated schools in Napier, and an additional 28 schools across the wider Hawke’s Bay region, the Kennards Hire Napier Branch will help transform local schools into engaging and inspiring spaces for students.

Damion Kinsey, Principal of Meeanee School in Napier, said, “Kennards Hire Napier is helping provide our school access to resources and tools that may otherwise be out of reach for a small school with a limited budget. Whether it’s equipment for sports events, building projects, or school functions, this partnership enhances the learning and extracurricular experiences we can offer to students.\

“This means we are able to complete projects that would cost us thousands of dollars otherwise. Right now, with help from Kennards Hire, we are working on repairing our bike track and creating a pump track for our students and community to enjoy."

Reflecting on Kennards Hire’s long-standing partnership with KidsCan, Branch Manager Matt Cross added, “Partnering with local schools through the programme allows us to meet, connect, and collaborate with the surrounding community to make a tangible difference. We're looking forward to contributing to the important initiatives that local affiliated schools are undertaking in Napier and across the wider Hawke’s Bay region.”

Julie Chapman, Founder and CEO of KidsCan, also expressed her appreciation for the programme, saying: “We’re delighted that Kennards Hire is bringing their Buddy School Program to our partner schools in Napier. This initiative provides access to equipment that schools wouldn’t otherwise have, making a significant difference in transforming spaces where children can play and learn. We’re incredibly grateful for their continued support."

 

About the KidsCan Buddy School Program

 

KidsCan is supported by Kennards Hire and the Kennards Hire Foundation.

Kennards Hire has been running the “Buddy School Program” since 2014, to help enhance learning environments by offering essential equipment, expert guidance, and volunteer support. Today, up to 367 KidsCan-affiliated schools across the country benefit from this programme.

To find out more about the valuable work that KidsCan does, visit their website: kidscan.org.nz/