SkyCity Signs Nationwide Partnership with all 5 NZ Super Rugby Teams

SkyCity Entertainment Group has announced a new multi-year partnership that will see it become the official entertainment partner of all five New Zealand rugby teams competing in the DHL Super Rugby Pacific. The agreement includes the Blues, Gallagher Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and the Highlanders.

This is the first time SkyCity has partnered with every NZ franchise at a national level. The deal builds on existing regional relationships and is considered to be the start of a broader push to connect with rugby fans across Aotearoa

A Nationwide Expansion for SkyCity

The partnership represents a significant nationwide step for SkyCity, extending its involvement beyond regional sponsorships to cover the full New Zealand Super Rugby landscape. SkyCity CEO Jason Walbridge said the deal reflects both the importance of rugby in New Zealand culture and the company’s desire to connect with communities across the country.“Rugby is part of New Zealand’s DNA, and partnering with all five NZ Super Rugby teams is a milestone we’re immensely proud of,” Walbridge said.

Building on Existing Rugby Relationships

SkyCity’s involvement in rugby is not new. The group has supported the Gallagher Chiefs through SkyCity Hamilton for a long time. Walbridge said it is a relationship that demonstrated the role rugby plays in bringing the community together. According to SkyCity, expanding that support across all five clubs allows the business to strengthen its national entertainment offering while maintaining its existing regional connections.

Club Response and Competition Impact

Interim Blues CEO Andy Roberts welcomed the partnership, describing it as a positive development for the competition and its clubs.
“DHL Super Rugby Pacific ignites passion like nothing else, and entertainment is what SkyCity does best,” Roberts said. He added that SkyCity’s support would help clubs invest in areas such as player development, fan initiatives and long-term sustainability, both on and off the field.

Looking Ahead

SkyCity has not yet shared any details about specific matchday activities, but says the partnership will be aimed at improving the overall fan experience in future Super Rugby seasons. For supporters, this suggests a more nationwide approach to entertainment as the competition continues to develop.