Welcoming Ara to the Hagley Oval family

18 October 2026

A new three-year partnership brings international education and cricket together at Hagley Oval.

Canterbury Cricket Trust is delighted to welcome Ara Institute of Canterbury as a new sponsor, with the Ara name set to become a prominent feature across the venue.

As part of the agreement, three familiar locations will take on new identities. The Hadlee Pavilion Stand will become the Ara Stand, the players’ tunnel will be known as the Ara Tunnel, and the broadcast towers will become the Ara Towers.

The partnership provides an opportunity for Ara to showcase its educational offering to local and international audiences, while strengthening its connection with the Canterbury community.

With another exciting season of international and domestic cricket approaching, we’re looking forward to welcoming Ara into the Hagley Oval family.

The partnership reflects a shared appreciation for the opportunities that education and sport create, bringing people together from different backgrounds and celebrating the connections that make Canterbury such a special place to live, learn and play.

Read the full media release below, including comments from Canterbury Cricket Trust Executive Manager Suz Pearce and Ara Director of Strategy, Planning and Performance Hayley Devoy.

[Read the full media release →]