Crusaders and ADC partner to support local services

Published: 10 January 2020

The Ashburton District Council in partnership with the Crusaders have today launched an exciting initiative to raise money for local mental health services, by pledging to donate $1 each for every ticket sold to the upcoming Crusaders versus Hurricanes pre-season game in Ashburton next week.

Rugby fans who buy a ticket to Saturday's (18 January) Crusaders vs. Hurricanes game will not only get to experience the 2019 Super Rugby champions in action at their first pre-season match of the year, but will also play a part in supporting the Ashburton District's mental health services.

The Council and Crusaders have a goal to raise $10,000 to promote and support mental health awareness and suicide prevention, with money raised to go to Safer Mid Canterbury - Life's Worth Living project activities.

Ashburton District Mayor Neil Brown says the fundraiser will help to increase awareness of a cause that's close to many residents' hearts.

"Like many rural communities, mental health is an issue for our district. This initiative will put much-needed funds into the front-line prevention activities working to combat this issue and help to support our people."

Council Chief Executive Hamish Riach agrees, saying the initiative is a wonderful opportunity to support local people and the services they rely on in times of need.

"We're very proud to work with the Crusaders to make this fundraiser a reality. Mental health is such an important factor in community wellbeing, and we want to do what we can to promote its awareness and make a real difference to people's lives.

"Don't miss this chance to lend a hand to our local support services. Help us reach our $10,000 target by purchasing your tickets for the game."

Crusaders Chief Executive Colin Mansbridge says the club is thrilled to take part in such a worthy cause.

"When the Council reached out to us, we jumped at the opportunity to take part. Positive mental health is so crucial, but when the scales begin to tip in the other direction, it's important to know that there are people and services who care and can help. We're honoured to be able to dig deep for these services and help them to implement such vital programmes and activities."

The Crusaders are tipping 2020 to be an exciting season, with a number of new players joining the team for their 25th year. The pre-season match in Ashburton will be the first chance for fans to see these players up close before the first round robin game gets underway.

"The Crusaders are very excited about playing in Ashburton in front of our Mid Canterbury fans, and this match is set to be a real showdown against the Hurricanes," Mr Mansbridge adds.

The Crusaders vs. Hurricanes pre-season game will kick off at the Ashburton A&P Showgrounds at 4pm on Saturday 18 January.

Tickets are available online at ticketrocket.co.nz​.​

Further ticketing information:

Four ticket options for this match are available:
  • General Admission (GA) - This ticket is on the grass bank on the North side and also two areas on the South side.
  • BIG TOP Hospitality - Limited to 250 tickets in our large marquee. The ticket price includes a spit roast dinner and four beverages.​
  • Main Stand General Admission (GA) - These seats are located in the Main Stand at the Ashburton Showgrounds.
  • Crusaders Mini Marquees (30 people) - These are available by contacting the Crusaders directly on crusadersclub@crusaders.co.nz​

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