The Northern Kāhu are proud to announce a new naming rights partnership with Bank of New Zealand. The team will now be known as the BNZ Northern Kāhu.
BNZ Northern Kāhu General Manager, Maria Tyrrell, says, "We're thrilled to have BNZ as our naming rights partner. Their support will provide our club with the resources we need to grow, and contribute to the promotion of women’s basketball in New Zealand. We can’t wait to get our season underway.”
“More importantly, our partnership with BNZ goes beyond the basketball court. It’s about shared values and a shared vision to inspire and uplift our community through sport.”
BNZ CEO Dan Huggins agrees and says the partnership aligns with BNZ’s focus on growing the social, cultural, and financial wellbeing of New Zealanders.
“Sport is a powerful vehicle for bringing communities together, supporting physical and mental health and teaching valuable skills like teamwork, commitment and perseverance,” he says.
Basketball is the fastest growing sport in New Zealand. It is the second most played sport in secondary schools, behind netball, and is fast on track to become New Zealand’s most popular school sport.
“With minimal barriers to entry, basketball is both accessible and inclusive. It’s a sport that reflects the diversity of our communities and provides an equitable platform for anyone to play,” Huggins says.
Despite its growing popularity, basketball is still underfunded in New Zealand. BNZ sees an opportunity to help fill this gap and support the sport that is capturing the hearts of Kiwis across the country.
“By partnering with the Northern Kāhu, we're not just supporting a team – we're investing in the future of basketball in Aotearoa and the positive impact it has in our communities," Huggins says.
Kāhu and Tall Ferns standout Krystal Leger-Walker is equally delighted to welcome BNZ to the Kāhu whanau.
“It’s awesome to see the quality of players, both local and international, returning to play in Tauihi Aotearoa. To have the support of BNZ lifts the professionalism and standing of Northern Kāhu and Tauihi to another level,” says Leger-Walker.
Fans will get the opportunity to see BNZ Northern Kāhu step out on the court soon. The opening home game is against Mainland Pouākai on Wednesday July 19 at Franklin Pool & Leisure Centre. Get your tickets here https://www.kahu.basketball/schedule
The partnership is one of several announcements BNZ will make this year in support of basketball and community initiatives.
