Unison Backs Junior Sport For 18th Year, Supporting 13,000 Local Kids

Unison Networks has launched the 2026 Greatest Supporter Programme, marking 18 years of backing junior sport and keeping young people safe across Hawke’s Bay, Taupō and Rotorua.

What began in 2009 as a single junior rugby partnership has grown into a region-wide initiative now supporting around 13,000 young people each year. The programme spans junior rugby, netball, hockey and football, alongside lake safety initiatives in Rotorua.

Unison Group General Manager Customer, Commercial & Regulatory, Jason Larkin, says the programme reflects the company’s strong connection to the communities it serves.

“As a consumer-owned organisation, supporting the wellbeing and safety of our communities is at the heart of what we do,” says Larkin.

“The Greatest Supporter Programme is about more than sport. It’s about helping tamariki stay active, build confidence, and understand how to stay safe around electricity.”

Through the programme, Unison provides practical support including sports equipment, funding for junior clubs, lake safety resources, and electricity safety education for players and their whānau.

Now in its 18th year, Larkin says the milestone is a testament to the strength of Unison’s partnerships across the regions.

“We’re proud of the relationships we’ve built with sporting organisations, volunteers and families over many years, and it’s great to be supporting tamariki across our communities.”

Unison’s Sideline Supporters will once again be a familiar presence throughout the winter season, visiting netball courts and rugby, hockey and football grounds to provide giveaways, activities and support for families on game days.

Popular initiatives including the ‘Good Sport’ and ‘Great Photo’ competitions will return in 2026, along with the Unison Medal, which recognises players who demonstrate teamwork, fairness, commitment and respect. Medal recipients will be celebrated at end-of-season ceremonies.

Hawke’s Bay Rugby Commercial Manager Dan Somerville says Unison’s support plays a critical role at grassroots level.

“Unison’s ongoing investment makes a real difference for young players and their families,” says Somerville.

“It helps remove barriers to participation and creates a positive, welcoming experience for kids starting out in sport. The Greatest Supporter kit bags are always hugely valued by first-time players.”

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Unison’s Greatest Supporter kit bags are made from recycled PET material and designed to last throughout a child’s junior sporting journey. Each bag includes a stainless steel drink bottle and electricity safety information printed on FSC-certified paper.

In 2026, around 1,300 children across Hawke’s Bay and Taupō will receive a kit bag during their first season in junior sport.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Unison’s Greatest Supporter kit bags are made from recycled PET material and designed to last throughout a child’s junior sporting journey. Each bag includes a stainless steel drink bottle and electricity safety information printed on FSC-certified paper.

For more information, visit: www.unison.co.nz/greatest-supporter

© Scoop Media