Stadium sponsorship celebrates long partnership

The bright blue and green colours of Otago Polytechnic are back under the roof at Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium, marking the reactivation of a long-standing partnership.

A new banner sign near the halfway line in the lower North Stand will proudly showcase the polytech’s familiar brand to stadium crowds.

With Otago Polytechnic once again an independent, standalone organisation, Chief Executive Andrew McSweeney is delighted to re-establish an agreement with Dunedin Venues Management Limited (DVML).

“This sponsorship shows OP’s commitment to Otago's event and sporting industry,” he says.

“It also reaffirms the reciprocal relationship with DVML which includes internship opportunities for our students, access to guest speakers and subject matter experts for our classes, and helping drive our courses to be industry and work ready.”

Rachael Jenkins, General Manager - Commercial at Dunedin Venues, says it represents a meaningful collaboration between two of Dunedin's leading institutions.

“Dunedin Venues and Otago Polytechnic share a long and successful history, and it's fantastic to see this partnership reactivated for 2026.”

The team are excited to welcome the OP brand back inside the stadium and celebrate a partnership that goes well beyond branding.

“It creates opportunities for students to gain practical industry experience while supporting the wide range of activity delivered across our venues – from major sporting fixtures and concerts through to conferences and community events,” says Rachael.

One student already benefitting from that environment is Teagan Popata, a 22-year-old Bachelor of Applied Management (specialising in Event Management) who is completing her 300-hour internship with DVML, focussing on the stadium’s membership offering and service experience.

“This internship enables Teagan to be fully integrated into the team, attend events, and undertake a research project that delivers practical value for the business while supporting her studies,” says Rachael.

Teagan says she’s gained valuable real-world experience from day one.

“I am directly involved in daily operations and event delivery at Forsyth Barr Stadium, process improvement activities, managing member communications, writing welcome letters for corporate suite holders, and designing engaging member activities throughout the NPC rugby season.

“On event days, I work on the ground assisting members, answering questions, and gathering feedback to help deliver an exceptional guest experience.”

The chance to apply the skills she’s developed over three years at Otago Polytechnic to the range of stadium events has boosted her confidence and provided a clear path into the industry.

“The support and real-world opportunities DVML provide have been invaluable.

“I highly recommend an internship like this to any Otago Polytechnic student looking to launch a career in event management.”

Helen Geytenbeek, Principal Lecturer and Internship Coordinator at the School of Business, says the two organisations have had strong ties since 2012.