Allied Petroleum (APL) is proud to announce a new partnership with Rugby Southland and Otago Rugby.
The collaboration goes beyond supplying fuel. It invests in growth and development, supporting everyone
from kids lacing up their boots for the first time to top-tier talent.
APL is dedicated to giving back to the Southern communities where the 100% NZ-owned, locally-
operated company was born in 1987.

A Homegrown Partnership Backing Community Rugby.
With strong Southland roots, APL understands the important role rugby plays in our local communities –
how a shared love of the game creates connections. This new partnership establishes APL as the
exclusive fuel supplier for both unions, helping drive the development of rugby across the southern
provinces – directly supporting 14,000+ players and 65+ clubs in one of New Zealand’s most rugby-
obsessed regions.

But it’s not just about the players. It’s about the fans. Rugby Southland, Otago Rugby and APL are also
dedicated to ensuring that rugby is accessible to everyone across the South, where approximately
50,000+ people engage with the sport every weekend (during the season).

We’re proud to partner with both Rugby Southland and Otago Rugby to play a key role in
Fuelling Rugby in the South. This partnership is about more than rugby—it’s a celebration of our
roots and our commitment to giving back to the Southern region that supported us from the
start. By nurturing grassroots rugby and empowering young talent, we’re ensuring Rugby
continues to thrive in the South. Through this partnership, we’re proud to fuel the staff travelling
across the regions, connecting communities and continuing to grow the game across Southland
and Otago. Looking forward to what lies ahead.
Mat Reynen, General Manager, Allied Petroleum

Community Investment.
All investments from APL go directly to Rugby Southland and Otago Rugby, funding initiatives to improve
the sport. This includes:
- Implementing rugby programmes for clubs and schools
- Developing the game at all levels
- Creating pathways for young player progression
- Supporting representative teams from U16 upwards
- Recruiting and training referees
- Educating and developing coaches
- Advancing elite player talent
- Providing services for rugby academies
- Promoting and increasing visibility of the rugby community
- Supplying equipment for players of all ages

From First Kicks to Veteran Players.
Rugby Southland and Otago Rugby welcome players of all ages and walks of life. From little ones taking
their first kicks to seasoned club veterans, these passionate non-profit organisations are there every step
of the game. Every weekend, they bring rugby to primary schools, high schools, senior clubs and more.
Creating spaces where everyone can stay active, make lifelong mates and develop valuable skills that
extend well beyond the playing field – such as teamwork, leadership and determination.

“Rugby Southland is thrilled to welcome Allied Petroleum as a valued partner in our journey to foster and
grow rugby in the Southern Region. With strong roots in Southland, Allied Petroleum, along with HWR,
represents the perfect Southern Partnership. Their support will not only help us fuel our travels across the
region but will also play a vital role in nurturing local pride and passion for the game, from grassroots
clubs to our beloved SBS Bank Southland Stags. Together, we will create a lasting impact on the sport
and the community, inspiring the next generation of rugby players and fans alike.

We are particularly excited to see the Allied Petroleum branding proudly displayed on the shorts of our
Southland Stags, debuting at our first home game against Otago. This partnership marks a significant
step forward in strengthening the bond between rugby and the Southland region, and we look forward to
a long and successful collaboration that will bring people together to celebrate the game and our shared
Southern heritage.”

Jack King, Head of Commercial & Business Development, Rugby Southland

“We are very excited to be entering into this groundbreaking partnership with Allied Petroleum and
Rugby Southland. The three organisations have true southern values and want to see our communities
and teams succeed both on and off the field. By supporting Otago Rugby, Allied Petroleum will ensure
that the future of Rugby in our province will remain strong from the kids on a Saturday morning to the
supporters watching from the sidelines. With one of the largest geographical regions in the country,
having the backing of Allied Petroleum at the pump will enable our dedicated staff to continue to grow and
nurture our national sport across Otago.

The presence of Allied Petroleum on our Bunnings Warehouse National Provincial Championship team’s
shorts is a reminder of their commitment to rugby in the South, we are excited to see what the future
holds for this partnership, which we are sure will be lengthy and positive as Allied Petroleum Fuels
Rugby in the South!”

Paul Thompson, Commercial Manager, Otago Rugby

Allied Petroleum is getting behind the incredible efforts of these local rugby unions. The company is
making a big commitment to help grow NZ’s favourite sport and reinvest in the communities that have
backed them from the beginning.

Article added: Monday 14 April 2025