Lovin’ the Landers

PlaceMakers Super Rugby sponsorship builds connections at local level

The Highlanders aim to lead the way when it comes to entertaining fans both on and off the field – and that includes pre-season practice games. Super Rugby sponsor PlaceMakers is right behind them – and the rest of NZ’s Super Rugby teams – whether it’s hosting a sausage sizzle for those pre-season matches, or helping out with local community events.

In late January, The Highlanders kicked off their community engagement with a Rugby 10s practice match, with exclusive entry for Highlanders members and sponsors. The intensity of the game fed the crowd’s appetite for good rugby and the PlaceMakers Dunedin and Mosgiel teams satisfied another appetite by cooking more than 500 sausages, with some help from the players themselves!

“We have a great local relationship with the ‘Landers’,” says PlaceMakers Branch Operator Justin Macready, who says Dunedin branch staff love being involved with their local team.

“The Highlanders are a real family, which fits well with our PlaceMakers culture, and many of our customers are avid rugby fans, players or ex-players.”

Justin says the Super Rugby sponsorship is a natural fit for PlaceMakers Dunedin and Mosgiel customers, and his staff enjoy helping the team with other community events throughout the season, such as ‘BendersShout’, a Kid’s Club Rugby free ticket and half time Race.

“The fan base in Dunedin and Mosgiel is very passionate and the pride we have in the Highlanders is immense,” says Justin, adding that everyone is excited to see how the season plays out.

“There’s certainly a massive buzz in the Highlanders franchise, having gone from being an underdog two years ago to a very strong team with high expectations. This standing continues to attract quality players and this season is no exception, with Tevita Li the latest example of that. I have no doubt it’s going to be a good one and we’re glad to be a part of it!”