MainPower and the North Canterbury Sport and Recreation Trust (NC Sports) have been named finalists in two categories at the 2026 New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards. This recognises the long-standing partnership that continues to deliver meaningful impact across North Canterbury communities.
The partnership has been shortlisted for:
- Community Impact Award – for the MainPower Primary Schools Coaching Programme
- Commercial Partnership Award – recognising multiple joint community initiatives
The awards celebrate the strength and longevity of a collaboration that has been supporting and promoting sport, community wellbeing and participation since 2009.
MainPower Chief Executive Sean Horgan said the recognition reflects the shared commitment to creating real opportunities for local people.
“We’re incredibly proud to be recognised alongside some of New Zealand’s leading sporting organisations. Our partnership with NC Sport is grounded in a shared purpose to support our communities to thrive.
“Together, we’re creating opportunities for young people to be active, build confidence and develop life skills that will stay with them well beyond the playing field.”
Over the past 17 years, the partnership has grown to include a wide range of programmes and facilities supporting community wellbeing. These include the MainPower Primary Schools Coaching Programme, MainPower WaiSwim programme, the MainPower Cycle Safety Programme, MainPower Youth Sport Scholarship initiatives, as well as naming rights support for key community assets such as MainPower Stadium and the MainPower Hockey Turf.
NC Sport Chief Executive, Michael Sharpe, said the partnership has played a critical role in enabling access and participation across the region.
“MainPower’s long-term commitment has allowed us to deliver programmes that genuinely remove barriers and make sport and recreation accessible to all.
“The impact goes far beyond participation numbers. We’re seeing stronger, more connected communities and improved wellbeing outcomes across North Canterbury.”
A 2025 Social Return on Investment (SROI) assessment highlights the significant value created through these initiatives. Every $1 invested in MainPower Stadium generates $7.63 in social value, and every $1 invested in the MainPower WaiSwim Programme delivers $4.25 in social return.
Horgan said the results demonstrate the power of investing in community partnerships.
“While the data is compelling, what really stands out is the human impact of increased participation, stronger community connections, and a real sense of pride in what we’re building together.”
MainPower and NC Sport join a strong field of finalists, including organisations such as New Zealand Rugby, Basketball New Zealand and Surf Life Saving New Zealand.
Winners will be announced at the New Zealand Sport and Recreation Awards in Auckland on Monday 8 June.
“To be finalists alongside such major organisations is a testament to the quality of the work happening here in North Canterbury,” said Sharpe. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together and excited about what’s still to come.”
