We welcomed representatives from every corner of the game to One NZ Stadium last week for a historic occasion- the first official Canterbury Rugby event held in our region's new home of rugby.

Bringing together club and school representatives, life members, volunteers, partners, players, staff and supporters, the event celebrated the people who make rugby in Canterbury what it is and marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the game across the region.

The evening provided the platform for Canterbury Rugby to unveil both its refreshed brand identity and its 2026 season campaign, Grassroots to Grandstand.

The brand refresh represents an evolution of Canterbury Rugby's identity- honouring our organisation's proud heritage while ensuring the brand reflects who Canterbury Rugby is today and where it is heading in the future. Developed through consultation with stakeholders from across the rugby ecosystem, the refreshed look reinforces the values, ambition and pride that have defined Canterbury Rugby for generations.

The launch of Grassroots to Grandstand built on that theme, celebrating the connection between every part of the game. From junior players taking their first steps onto a rugby field, to volunteers, coaches, referees and supporters, right through to representative players running out onto One NZ Stadium, the campaign recognises that rugby in Canterbury is built by an entire community.

Throughout the evening, speakers reflected on what rugby means to Canterbury and the unique role it plays in bringing people together.

Canterbury Rugby alumni Aaron Flynn and Julie Patterson shared their personal experiences of the game and what Grassroots to Grandstand means to them, both on and off the field. Their stories highlighted the lifelong connections, opportunities and sense of belonging rugby creates, while reinforcing the importance of every person who contributes to the game, regardless of where they are involved.

The event also marked an important milestone as Canterbury Rugby prepares for its first season at One NZ Stadium.

Chief Executive Tony Smail said the venue represents far more than a new place to play rugby.

"This stadium belongs to all of us. It belongs to our clubs, our schools, our volunteers, our players, our partners and our supporters. Rugby in Canterbury has always been built by community, and it's fitting that one of the first Canterbury Rugby events in this venue brought together representatives from every part of our game."

"One NZ Stadium will become a new gathering place for our region and a place where the entire Canterbury rugby community can come together. Whether you're involved at grassroots level or cheering from the grandstand, this is your home too."

The 2026 season will see Canterbury's NPC side play all their games, with the FPC side joining for a double header on the 26^th September, at One NZ Stadium, with ticket prices deliberately set to ensure Canterbury Rugby remains the most affordable ticket to any sporting event at the venue.

Our goal is simple: to make sure as many people as possible can experience live rugby and feel part of the next chapter of Canterbury Rugby's story.

As the evening came to a close, one message resonated throughout the room. Rugby in Canterbury is about much more than what happens on the field. It is about connection, community and inspiring a sense of belonging for all.

From grassroots to grandstand, everyone has a place in the story. Memberships, Individual game tickets, and Hospitality are all available now, the first season at One NZz Stadium only happens one.

Watch the refreshed brand video here, and be part of the journey.