Standing for more than the game: 2degrees sponsor the Highlanders

Two of the country’s most proud and passionate teams are joining forces this Investec Super Rugby season with 2degrees named the official telecommunications partner of the Pulse Energy Highlanders for the 18-team tournament.

The two-year deal covering the 2017 and 2018 tournaments will see 2degrees and the Highlanders work together on an integrated campaign to engage fans at the games, in stores, and within the 1100-strong business.

The Highlanders have also become a 2degrees business customer relying on the 2degrees network to keep them connected.

Originally from Scotland, 2degrees CEO, Stewart Sherriff says the Highlander spirit resonated personally with his own team, who he characterised by their pride, honesty, loyalty, kinship and hard work as well, creating a great natural synergy.

“I love what the Highlanders stand for, I’m a Highlander myself, they were borne from adversity in Scotland and in a way so was 2degrees.

“It’s been a real challenge as NZ’s third mobile entrant. We’re proud of our heritage and now we’re reaching out to our southern counterparts to show the width and breadth of 2degrees, our network and ability to connect all New Zealanders and businesses. “With rugby remaining a strong heartland passion point for New Zealanders we look forward to connecting fans more closely during the upcoming season bringing the power of our network and innovation to the field.”

Pulse Energy Highlanders CEO Roger Clark said he was delighted to welcome 2degrees into the family of major commercial partners.

“2degrees are all about enriching lives through connecting people, which is also a key element of our business. Clearly we see synergies between the two organisations and we look forward to working with 2degrees over the next two years to develop them”.

The Highlanders wore their rugby shirts with the 2degrees logo worn on the sleeve during the pre-season warm-ups and will again during the match vs the Lions with more experientially based elements on the way.

Amelia Kininmonth, Pulse Energy Highlanders General Manager, Commercial and Marketing said: “Bringing 2degrees on as our telecommunications partner for the next two years is a significant step forward. Aligning with such a progressive, innovative and service oriented company is a very positive development for us. We try and connect with our fans as much as possible and provide unique experiences, as we understand how important they are to our business. 2degrees will play a very important part in that connection".