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Connection, community, and commitment to excellence. These are some of the shared values driving the new partnership between Novotel Christchurch Airport and Matatū, the South Island’s Super Rugby Aupiki women’s rugby team.
The 4.5-star, 200-room Novotel Christchurch Airport Hotel has kicked off the 2025 season as Matatū’s official and exclusive accommodation partner, ensuring the team and their fans have a world-class place to rest, recover, and prepare for games.
Women’s rugby in Christchurch and the wider South Island has a proud and growing history. From grassroots participation at local clubs to tackling the elite Super Rugby Aupiki competition, the region has long been home to some of New Zealand’s most talented female athletes. Stephanie Te Ohaere-Fox, Kendra Cocksedge, and Maia Joseph are but a few notable examples of wāhine toa having an impact on the domestic and international sports stage.
The establishment of Matatū as a professional women’s rugby team in 2021 marked a major milestone in the development of the sport, providing a pathway for young players.
“We are thrilled to partner with Matatū and support the growth of women’s rugby in New Zealand,” says Novotel Christchurch Airport general manager James Wilson.
“At Novotel Christchurch Airport, we believe in fostering strong community connections and providing spaces where people can thrive. Supporting Matatū is a natural fit for us, as we share the values of teamwork, resilience, and excellence.
“The team has quickly established itself as a formidable force in women’s rugby, representing the regions covered in men’s rugby by the Crusaders and the Highlanders.
“The players are known for their commitment to Matatū’s values on and off the field, and it’s something that resonates deeply with our team at Novotel Christchurch Airport. As part of this partnership, we will explore community initiatives and look forward to hosting the players in our meeting spaces throughout the season and beyond.”
“Having a high-quality accommodation partner like Novotel Christchurch Airport means our team and management have access to world-class event and meeting spaces that will be well utilised throughout the season,” says Matatū general manager Sarah Munro.
“But beyond that, it speaks to the growing recognition and investment in women’s sport. We are grateful for Novotel’s support and excited to work together.”
As Matatū continues to make strides in women’s rugby and further establish the South Island as a powerhouse of rugby talent, Novotel Christchurch Airport is proud to play a role in the team’s journey. The partnership underscores the importance of supporting women’s rugby and creating opportunities for female athletes to compete at the highest level.
Novotel Christchurch Airport is managed by Hind Management, which also owns and manages New Zealand’s award-winning Sudima Hotels chain. Both Hind Management and Sudima Hotels are actively involved in supporting women’s rugby around the country through various initiatives, including sponsoring the women’s Counties Manukau Heat rugby team and a fund the players can apply from to help fund personal and professional development.
All partnerships and sponsorships are part of a broader effort to support women’s rugby and provide opportunities for young athletes to excel on and off the field.
