Port Taranaki’s successful three-year term as principal sponsor of the Port Taranaki Bulls has come to an end, but the company’s support of the Ranfurly Shield-winning rugby team will continue, says Port Taranaki chief executive Guy Roper.

“We have really enjoyed being principal partner for the past three years during a very successful period for Taranaki rugby – reaching two Mitre 10 Cup semifinals and, in particular, winning the Ranfurly Shield,” Mr Roper said.

“We’ve been a supporter of Taranaki rugby for close to 25 years, including having been a major sponsor for six years before taking up the principal partnership.

“Throughout that time we have enjoyed our association with the clubs, fans, players, coaches and administrators, and look forward to continuing our support in some capacity this season and in seasons to come.”

Mr Roper said the Port Taranaki Bulls had done the region and Port Taranaki proud during the company’s tenure as principal partner.

“It has been fantastic seeing the Port Taranaki logo displayed proudly and successfully on the front of the amber and black jersey on rugby grounds around the country,” he said.

“We’re a company owned by the community that aims to make a real difference to the region, so supporting the Bulls has been a key part of that.”

Mr Roper said undoubtedly the highlight of Port Taranaki’s time as principal sponsor was last October’s stunning victory over Canterbury in Christchurch to win the Ranfurly Shield.

“The way the team played that night to come back from a horror start, dig deep and win the shield showed real heart, commitment and courage, and it was great to see the community support when the team brought the shield home and defended it against Manawatu.

“We wish the team all the best in this season’s Mitre 10 Cup and in defending the Ranfurly Shield,” Mr Roper said.

Taranaki Rugby chief executive Jeremy Parkinson thanked Port Taranaki for its tremendous support.

“Port Taranaki has been a fantastic backer of Taranaki rugby for a very long time and particularly the past three years as our principal partner. Their ongoing support has been crucial to the success of our union both on the field and off it,” he said.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Port Taranaki and having them onboard as a valuable Taranaki Rugby supporter.”

Yarrows the Bakers has signed on as principal partner of Taranaki Rugby for the next three years.