THE NEW ZEALAND Rugby League (NZRL) signed its “biggest ever sponsorship deal” this week, with Pirtek New Zealand coming onboard as principal partner for the next three years.
Under the terms of the deal, the global supplier of hydraulic and industrial hose and associated fittings, will become the title sponsor of the domestic league – the Pirtek National Premiership – and the front-of-shirt sponsor of the Kiwi national team.
Pirtek will also support the grassroots development of the sport in New Zealand and provide the nation’s 157 rugby league clubs with sporting equipment.
Frontloaded values Pirtek’s contribution at between US$2.5m and US$5m per year.
The partnership marks the second association between the two parties, with Pirtek having been a backer of the Kiwis throughout their 2008 Rugby League World Cup victory in Australia.
Commenting on the deal, NZRL CEO Jim Doyle said: “The positive thing about Pirtek's involvement is that it's actually from grassroots to Kiwis. It's not just about the Kiwis and being the main sponsor on the front of the jersey. The investment will help us to continue to grow and develop the game at all levels.”
The Australasian arm of the brand has previously sponsored the Australian National Rugby League (NRL) side the Parramatta Eels between 2008 and 2010, and the Toll HRT Dealer Team in the V8 Supercar Championship in 2008 and 2009.
Responsible for negotiations on behalf of the brand was Pirtek New Zealand general manager Chris Bourke.
By Luke Harman
Follow Luke on Twitter: @lukeharmanSBG