NZCT Gets Putauaki Stags RLC All Kitted Out

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded a grant of $30,720 to Putauaki Stags Rugby League Club in Kawerau to fund new uniforms and playing equipment, helping the club re‑establish rugby league locally and support safe participation across its senior and junior teams.

Putauaki Stags RLC is a newly formed incorporated society, re‑established to bring rugby league back to the Kawerau community after a period of inactivity. The club is focused on providing safe, structured, and inclusive sporting opportunities that support physical wellbeing, positive youth engagement, and community connection.

Spokesperson Ryleigh Hayes says securing essential gear was a key step in getting the club back on its feet. “As a new society, we have limited financial capacity, so extra funding was required in order to purchase new uniforms and basic equipment so our players can participate safely and without financial barriers.”

Krystal Nuku, Founding Member, Trustee, and Juniors Co‑ordinator says, “Ngā mihi nui to NZCT for their funding support. This season marks a significant milestone for our club, as our tamariki, wāhine, and tāne teams take the field proudly wearing symbols of our maunga and our awa deeply connecting us to the whenua we represent. This moment reflects more than just sport, it is a celebration of identity, unity, and whakapapa. As we move forward together, we stand as one ‘KOTAHITANGA’ grounded in our shared values and strengthened by our collective journey.”

NZCT’s General Manager of Grants, Marketing and Communications Ben Hodges says, “Local sport plays a huge role in bringing communities together and giving tamariki and rangatahi a positive place to belong. NZCT can fund this community good thanks to the fundraising partnership we share with Cayman’s Sports Bar via their host responsible gaming lounge.”