Bank of New Zealand renews sponsorship of Investec Super Rugby   26 Sep 2012

The Bank of New Zealand has extended its sponsorship of Investec Super Rugby for a further three years from 2013, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) announced today.

"We're thrilled to have the Bank of New Zealand back supporting the most exciting regional rugby competition in the world," said NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew.

"This is a significant show of support for New Zealand rugby so we thank the Bank of New Zealand for recommitting for a further three years. Investec Super Rugby has been a huge success this year with strong crowds and TV audiences which is great news for the game and for sponsors."

BNZ has sponsored Super Rugby since the 2010 season.

Under the new sponsorship arrangement BNZ is officially the Principal Partner of the Blues, Chiefs, Crusaders, Hurricanes and Highlanders and Partner of Investec Super Rugby.

The contract provides for a range of exclusive benefits, including front of jersey branding rights, signage and promotional appearances by players.

"Our staff and a huge number or our customers are passionate fans of the teams and from a professional standpoint, we admire the dedication and discipline that the teams and franchises apply every day," said CEO Andrew Thorburn

"It's that same commitment to excellence that we aspire to in our everyday dealings with our customers. As such, aligning ourselves with the brand is a natural fit."

The re-signing of the BNZ follows renewals by five major All Blacks sponsors earlier this year - Coca Cola New Zealand, Unilever, Sanitarium, Barkers and Bvlgari (for a full list of sponsors, click here)

"We need $100 million a year to run the game in this country so we really value the support of all our commercial partners," said Tew. "If we are to grow the game in this country from the grassroots upwards and continue to produce the world's best players we need the funds to do that so it's vital we continue to maintain and grow our stable of sponsors."

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