09 Oct 2026
New Zealand owned and operated NHR Group is proud to partner with Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union in a two-year partnership that puts the NHR Group name firmly behind the Counties Manukau Steelers. Counties Manukau is part of NHR's wider rugby whānau, which also includes North Harbour, Waikato and Canterbury. The partnership is a natural one for NHR, with its Manukau and Franklin branches already serving customers across the Counties Manukau region.
A Natural Fit for NHR Group and the Steelers
Counties Manukau rugby has long been known for adventurous, attacking football. The Steelers name itself is a nod to the region's industrial heritage at the Glenbrook steel mill. NHR Group has been keeping New Zealand businesses and households moving since 1999, and both organisations place community, hard work and reliability at the centre of what they do.
“We are proud to partner with Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union. Our shared commitment to community, excellence, and encouraging active participation makes this relationship a natural fit. We look forward to supporting the Union and the Counties community,” said Phil Arras, NHR Group Chief Executive.
What the Partnership Brings to Counties Manukau
The partnership extends well beyond match day. CMRFU and NHR Group will work together on community engagement initiatives and cross-promotional opportunities. Steelers supporters will spot the NHR Group logo on the back left of the team's shorts, and NHR Group will also have ongoing visibility across CMRFU competitions, events and digital platforms, both locally and nationally.
“We are delighted to be partnering with NHR Group for the next two years,” said Andrew Philips, Head of Commercial at CMRFU. “Our partnership is a strong example of how commercial relationships can deliver real value for our community while staying true to our shared values.”
The full announcement is available on the Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union news page
Community Hire Rates for the Counties Rugby Family
The partnership includes discounted vehicle hire rates for the Counties Manukau rugby community, giving clubs, schools and supporters easier access to the right vehicle. Teams heading to away fixtures can travel together in a 12 seater minibus, and clubs moving gear, equipment or fundraising stock can choose from a wide range of cargo vans and furniture trucks. Community members can access the partnership rates by registering through the NHR Members Portal and entering the CMRFU community code.
Local Branches in the Heart of Steelers Country
The Steelers play their home games at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe, just down the road from NHR's Franklin branch. The Manukau branch serves the northern end of the region. Customers at both branches have access to a modern, well-maintained fleet with regular servicing, 24/7 breakdown cover and GPS tracking for peace of mind. The local team will help match the right vehicle, with the right specifications, at the right price.
Supporting Provincial Rugby across New Zealand
Rugby holds a special place in New Zealand life. More than 160,000 players take the field each season, supported by over 20,000 managers, volunteers and administrators who keep the game running, according to New Zealand Rugby. Club rooms, school fields and Saturday sidelines are where friendships are formed, young players find their feet and whole towns rally behind the jersey. Provincial rugby carries that spirit onto a bigger stage, giving each region a team to call its own and a reason to come together week after week.
Counties Manukau is a fine example of that spirit, with clubs from Papakura and Karaka through to Pukekohe and Waiuku feeding talent into a Steelers side that proudly reflects the character of the region. NHR Group sees its role as helping that community keep moving, whether that means getting a team to an away fixture or supporting the volunteers who give so much of their time to the game. The partnership reflects NHR's commitment to the regions it serves, and more about its wider rugby involvement is available on the NHR Group rugby page.
Whether it is a club working bee, a team road trip or a house move across Franklin, NHR Group is ready to help. Browse the full range of rental vehicles or call the team on 0800 110 110.
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