Hot on the heels of last year's successful fundraising effort, BNZ is once again partnering with New Zealand's Investec Super Rugby teams to support Plunket.
The BNZ Future Stars fundraiser gives Kiwi kids the chance to have their name featured on a jersey to be worn by one of their rugby heroes during Round 10 in Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin on April 17 and 18. All Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders players will be wearing jerseys featuring the winning children's names.
For the 'Canes, jerseys 5, 11, and 13 will be up for grabs via the auctions, while you can also enter an online ballot where 90 people could WIN their child's name on the jersey.
All proceeds from the BNZ Future Stars auctions will go to Plunket to support the great work they do with New Zealand's future stars. Last year more than $12,000 was raised and this year BNZ and Plunket hope to raise even more.
Plunket New Zealand President Andree Talbot is delighted to be part of the BNZ Future Stars programme.
"As New Zealand's largest provider of support services for the development, health and well-being of Kiwi kids under five, we rely heavily on help from our charity partners to keep our services freely accessible for families. The money raised by BNZ Future Stars will go towards our on-going programme of Plunket services such as playgroups, Plunket family centres, parenting courses and support services, which are often a lifeline for families. We're grateful to all who get involved in the fun and help support Plunket."
Last year it was the Crusader's number nine jersey, worn by Andy Ellis, that topped the Trade Me bids at $1220. This year, the Hurricanes are determined to top the bidding!
To check out the bidding action, or have a bid yourself, follow this link; www.bnzfuturestars.co.nz/trademe-entry
To enter the online ballot, simply pick your team, enter your child's details, and create your personalised virtual jersey at www.bnzfuturestars.co.nz
The ballot and bidding for the BNZ Future Stars runs through to Easter Monday.
Round 10 of the competition will see the Crusaders take on the Chiefs at AMI Stadium on Friday April 17, while Saturday 18 April sees the Hurricanes challenge the Waratahs at Westpac Stadium. The Highlanders are taking on the Blues the same evening at Forsyth Barr Stadium.