SKYCITY to Continue as Major Sponsor of Ak Rugby

MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
30 January 2007
Skycity to Continue as the Major Sponsor of Auckland Rugby Until 2010

A four-year, $2 million-plus sponsorship deal between Auckland Rugby/The Blues and SKYCITY Auckland has been announced, cementing SKYCITY’s longstanding and iconic association with Auckland Rugby, which dates back to 1996.

The deal, which runs through to the end of 2010, means that SKYCITY continues to be the major sponsor of the Auckland Air New Zealand Cup team and a key sponsor of the Blues. SKYCITY will also continue to be the major sponsor of the SKYCITY Cheer Team for the Rebel Sport Super 14 competition.

The first game of the season for the Blues kicks off on Friday 2 February, when they take on the Crusaders at Eden Park. For fans this will be the first chance to see the SKYCITY Cheer Team in action this year.

Evan Davies, SKYCITY Entertainment Group’s Managing Director said SKYCITY was delighted to continue its longstanding association with Auckland Rugby.

“SKYCITY’s commitment to Auckland Rugby and the Blues represents one of the most significant sponsorships we have been involved in to date. SKYCITY has always been a proud supporter of Auckland rugby since we opened in 1996.

“The fit between Auckland Rugby and SKYCITY is right. Auckland Rugby is an integral part of the city’s make up. Fun, excitement and entertainment are at the heart of the SKYCITY experience. Both the Blues and Auckland Rugby provide its followers with a brand of passionate rugby that is fun and exciting to watch,” he said.

Andy Dalton, CEO of the Blues/Auckland Rugby, said the sponsorship deal further enhances the association between two great Auckland entertainment icons.

“SKYCITY's sponsorship commitment to the Blues and Auckland Rugby is more than just a financial deal. It is a partnership that signals our endeavour to deliver rugby as it should be to our fans. From the fantastic SKYCITY Cheerleaders, to the players on the field and the jerseys they wear, this partnership is about excellence and performance from two companies who want to see rugby flourish,” he said.

SKYCITY recently won the TVNZ and The New Zealand Herald Sponsorship Award for best provincial sports sponsorship, for the sponsorship of Auckland Rugby. An award which Evan Davies says that SKYCITY was proud to receive.

“The award really proved that this sponsorship has become an absolute icon with Aucklanders,” said Mr Davies.

On 20th February at 6pm Blues fans of all ages will be able to come face-to-face with the team for a public signing session in SKYCITY Atrium.

ENDS

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