Matatū partners with The Tannery for inaugural season
The Tannery are continuing to shine a spotlight on professional women this year, as they join Matatū as a foundation partner for the Sky Super Rugby Aupiki 2022 season.
For the last 10 years, The Tannery has been a space for women in business to thrive. Leading the way in equality and championing professional women in Ōtautahi, The Tannery Marketing and Centre Manager Kelly Sharpe said the brand visions aligned perfectly with Matatū.
“When we were offered the opportunity to support our Matatū wāhine in their first ever Super Rugby Aupiki games, it was an easy yes from us.”
Pictured: Matatū athletes TeRauoriwa Gapper, Martha Mataele and Di Hiini visit The Tannery in Woolston, where the team’s Jersey Launch was recently held.
“Over 65% of the businesses here at The Tannery are run by women and this is something we are proud of, and a part of what makes our identity,” Sharpe said.
““The alignment of supporting successful women, whether it be in business or as athletes, was perfect.””
The Tannery has also played a big part in supporting local community, and has acted as a central asset to the Woolston community. Matatū saw the partnership as an opportunity to build connections to this region and get involved with the locals.
Before new Covid protocols were introduced, the partnership had been planned to include school visits and opportunities for athletes to connect with the community, inspiring kids to be the best they could be.
Though these plans will look slightly different moving forward, Matatū General Manager Sarah Munro said she was grateful to have the support of a partner who shared such a mutual vision.
“The Tannery champions successful females, and, like us, recognises the work it takes to get there.”
“The partnership represents our matatūtanga in so many ways, celebrating the legacy (tūaho) of those who paved the way, and the determination (tūmanawa) it has taken to reach success,” Munro said.
“It also represents unity (tūtira), in that everyone is supporting each other for the same cause. Finally, it represents connections (tūhono), to the region and to local community.”
“We are so lucky to be aligned with our supporters in our values and goals, and we can’t wait to do an awesome job representing them on and off the field.”
This partnership centralises whānau, equality, connection and local success. Matatū is happy to be standing alongside The Tannery as the inaugural Sky Super Rugby Aupiki competition kicks off in March 2022.