CENTRAL DISTRICTS CRICKET is one of five New Zealand Major Associations proud to announce a new joint national partnership with QBE New Zealand today.

Alongside Auckland Cricket, Cricket Wellington, Canterbury Cricket Association and Otago Cricket Association, CD is marking a first-of-its-kind collaboration that unites regional cricket under one nationwide initiative.

The partnership brings QBE’s long-standing commitment to supporting grassroots sport to New Zealand, and reinforces a shared dedication to inclusion, diversity and community engagement, through cricket.

QBE is championing the areas that matter most to the future of our game:

• Volunteers – recognising and celebrating the people who make cricket possible
• Junior Cricket – helping young players to develop skills and confidence
• Girls’ Cricket – creating pathways and opportunities for female athletes to thrive

“This partnership brings together a shared belief in the power of sport to positively shape the lives of children and young people, and to strengthen the communities around them", said Canterbury Cricket CEO Richard Brewer, speaking on behalf of the five Major Associations.

"With QBE’s support, we can better recognise and celebrate the volunteers who are at the heart of cricket while continuing to create more opportunities for young people to engage with and enjoy the game.

"Working alongside QBE, we are focused on building inclusive, community-led pathways that ensure cricket remains accessible, welcoming, and impactful for generations to come.”

The initiative mirrors QBE’s longstanding successful partnerships in Australia where the company has proudly supported AFL team the Sydney Swans for nearly 40 years - making it one of the longest-standing sponsorships in Australasian sport; and 18 years with Netball's NSW Swifts.

“We’re proud to support grassroots cricket and help foster an inclusive environment that encourages participation and growth,” said Jonathan Groves, CEO and Managing Director, QBE Pacific.

“This partnership demonstrates QBE’s commitment to being at the heart of communities across New Zealand and supporting the next generation of cricketers.

“Supporting communities and helping businesses thrive is at the heart of what we do," said Groves.

"This partnership is a natural extension of that purpose and one we’re deeply passionate about.

"We're proud to support the people and programmes that strengthen local communities, and cricket plays a significant role in that across New Zealand.

"By working with the [five] Major Associations, we’re helping grow junior participation, recognise volunteers, and expand opportunities for girls so the game remains strong, inclusive, and reflective of communities for the future.”

The sponsorship has already kicked off this summer, with activities beginning earlier this month and to continue over the next three years to strengthen community engagement, and encourage greater inclusivity. 

ABOUT QBE:

• QBE New Zealand sells a complete suite of business insurance solutions through a network of brokers and advisers around the country.
• For 125 years, QBE has been at the heart of supporting Kiwi businesses with global strength and local expertise.
• "We stand beside the people and industries that keep New Zealand moving — whether it’s small businesses, large corporates or critical infrastructure, but at the heart of it all are people.
• "Behind every policy, there’s a person, a dream, a future to protect. And when it matters most, our customers know they can count on more than just policies or claims — they can count on people who genuinely support them.
• "That’s the QBE difference — innovative solutions, real support, delivered with heart."

Article added: Thursday 29 January 2026