Words: AutoTrader NZ
Published 7 August 2026
Auto Trader is proud to announce its new role as principal sponsor of the Auckland Rugby Referees Association for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, reinforcing its commitment to grassroots sport and the communities that keep New Zealand moving.
The partnership was announced at the annual Auckland Rugby Union Club Luncheon, where Auckland Rugby Referees Association President Rob Harman joined Auto Trader CEO Dan Michelle on stage to share the news.
It was a fantastic opportunity to meet the wider rugby community and mark the beginning of an exciting partnership. Auto Trader looks forward to becoming a familiar presence around Auckland’s club rugby grounds over the next two seasons.
Supporting the Heart of Community Rugby
While players often receive the spotlight, referees are essential to every match. Their dedication, knowledge, and passion help ensure games are played fairly and safely, making community rugby possible week after week.
Community rugby is built on much more than the 80 minutes played each weekend. It’s the early-morning field setup, the volunteers running the clubrooms, the families cheering from the sidelines, and the referees who turn up every week to keep the game moving.
As principal sponsor, Auto Trader will support Auckland’s rugby referees both on and off the field while celebrating the people who give their time to the game.
“We’re excited to partner with the Auckland Rugby Referees Association and support its referee community,” said Dan Michelle, Chief Executive Officer at Auto Trader NZ.
“Referees are a vital part of every game, yet much of what they do happens behind the scenes. This partnership is about recognising their contribution while celebrating the people and communities that make grassroots rugby so special.”
Celebrating Matchday Stories
Throughout the 2027 and 2028 seasons, the Auto Trader team will attend club rugby matches across Auckland to capture the authentic moments that make community rugby unique.
Alongside the action on the field, Auto Trader will showcase the atmosphere around the grounds – from volunteers and supporters to players, coaches, and referees highlighting the stories that often go unseen.
The Auto Trader brand will also feature throughout the Auckland club rugby community, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to local sport and the people who make it possible.
More Than Cars
At Auto Trader, connecting people has always been at the heart of what we do.
Whether helping Kiwis find their next vehicle or supporting organisations that bring people together, Auto Trader believes in backing initiatives that make a positive difference in communities across New Zealand.
Becoming principal sponsor of the Auckland Rugby Referees Association is another step in that journey. Over the next two seasons, Auto Trader looks forward to celebrating the stories, personalities, and memorable moments that make Auckland club rugby one of the country’s great community sporting traditions.
Here’s to an exciting partnership and to the players, clubs, volunteers, supporters, and referees who make it all possible. 🏉
