Surf Life Saving New Zealand and KFC Win at the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) and Restaurant Brands (KFC) are thrilled and honoured to announce that they have been named winners at this year’s New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards in the Commercial Partnership category.

Around 300 people, including leaders from across the sector, gathered at the Cordis Hotel in Auckland for the awards, which recognised the outstanding contributions to enhancing people’s lives through sports and recreation.

Raelene Castle, Sport NZ Chief Executive, said, “The event is about recognising and celebrating the achievements of everyone within our sector and their amazing mahi.  These people work tirelessly to enable hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders to be physically active.”

In regards to SLSNZ and KFC the judges said, “Underpinned annually by a TV commercial and bucket campaign, the two organisations work closely, collaboratively and authentically together to promote key messaging.  Right down to rattling the red buckets, they are an active partner, always searching for more ways to help raise funds”.

Throughout the 2022/2023 season, KFC has donated of over $200,000 to SLSNZ and the Orewa and United North Piha clubs following the devastating flooding events earlier in the year.

One of the most successful promotions was the limited edition KFC merchandise, which included a one-of-a-kind, KFC-branded surfboard.  The public could buy these items, with 100% of the close to $50,000 proceeds going to support SLSNZ.

Clark Wilson, Restaurant Brands General Manager of Marketing, said, “SLSNZ has a strong connection with New Zealanders and through our collaboration with them we’ve brought impactful campaigns and initiatives to life that have resonated with Kiwis.”

Jo Clark, SLSNZ Head of Commercial and Marketing, added, “KFC is an exceptional partner.  They’re always willing to embrace innovation and work closely with us to elevate the profile of Surf Life Saving and raise crucial funds to not only support our incredible lifeguarding service, but our amazing lifesaving sport.”

The 2022/2023 season also marked a significant milestone for the partnership as they celebrated their 10^th anniversary together.

Wilson said, “We are proud to be a Gold Partner of SLSNZ for over a decade.  We firmly believe in supporting their volunteers who make sure everyone returns home safe and sound after a day at the beach.”