
Media Release 31 May 2025
HIGGINS CONCRETE NAMED AS PRINCIPAL, NAMING RIGHTS AND FRONT OF JERSEY PARTNER OF MANAWATŪ TURBOS
Manawatū Rugby is proud to announce Higgins Concrete as the Principal, Naming Rights and Front of Jersey Partner of the Manawatū Turbos for 2025 and 2026.
For nearly two decades, Higgins has been a central figure in the commercial partnership landscape of Manawatū Rugby. First joining forces in 2006, Higgins has consistently supported the team and its ambitions, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the growth and strength of rugby in the region. In 2024, Higgins Concrete returned as a commercial partner, continuing its tradition of backing Manawatū Rugby. This relationship has transcended mere sponsorship, fostering a sense of shared purpose and collaboration that resonates with the entire rugby community.
The partnership reflects a dedication not only to the sport but also to the values of teamwork, resilience, and community engagement that rugby embodies. Together, Manawatū Rugby and Higgins have cultivated a legacy of excellence and mutual support, setting a strong foundation for the future of the sport in the region.
Higgins Concrete General Manager Mike Botherway says, "The connection between the Higgins brand, the Higgins family, and the Manawatū Rugby Union goes back to the Save the Turbos campaign in the mid-2000s. The family was instrumental in supporting the Union to remain in Division One, and ultimately, win the championship a number of years later. The relationships that grew out of that period are still very strong today. Given the current state of provincial rugby in New Zealand, we felt it was the right time to once again throw our support behind the Union — now as a principal partner for the next few years. Our goal is to help grow the game — both at the performance level and in the community. Supporting the community has always been incredibly important to the family and to the brand. That’s what brings us to today, and I’m privileged to be able to announce this partnership with the Manawatū Rugby Union."
Manawatū Rugby Chief Executive Doug Tietjens expressed his excitement about the partnership with Higgins Concrete for the next two years. He stated, "As an organisation, we have a vision of bringing our community together through rugby and an objective of achieving sustained success both on and off the field. We believe that Higgins Concrete is aligned with our values and will be instrumental in supporting us in the pursuit of this vision and our objectives. Quite simply, they care about rugby and want to help us with our cause."
Manawatū Rugby Commercial Manager Frazer Hutana says “our roots run deep in the Manawatū community, having grown and thrived alongside each other for generations. We’re excited to partner with Higgins Concrete and continue to build on the proud 139-year legacy of rugby in our community”
ENDS
Article added: Saturday 31 May 2025