The bank partners with a well-respected global rugby star
Kiwibank has announced a new partnership with a well-respected global rugby star.
Sarah Hirini, Ngāti Kahungunu, international rugby player, sevens legend, and two-time Olympian, was appointed to the newly shaped role of Whatu Kōkiri Kiwibank Impact Champion.
Read more: Kiwibank launches first major brand overhaul in a decade
“In conversations with Sarah it became very clear, very quickly, how our goals at Kiwibank and her thinking were super aligned,” Kiwibank CEO Steve Jurkovich said. “Sarah has a motto: ‘Want more, aspire higher.’ It takes Kiwibank’s purpose statement of ‘Kiwi making Kiwi better off’ to an aspirational level and we absolutely love that."
The New Zealand-owned bank teamed up with Hirini to inspire more Kiwis to reach their goals – whether to achieve financial security, leadership, or embarking on their Te Ao Māori journey.
Kiwibank believes that Hirini’s strength around goal setting, both on and off the sports field, is something all Kiwis can relate to.
“Early on in her career, with the encouragement of her parents, Sarah partnered with her sister to purchase a home,” Jukovich said. “The alternative approach to homeownership is one that Kiwibank has been championing since launching Co-own earlier in 2022. It is all about supporting more Kiwi to get on the property ladder sooner, ensuring a secure financial future for them and their whānau. Sarah has also played a part in championing financial security with her team-mates, and we are excited to bring this thinking, through her, to our wider customer base, and communities.”
Read next: Kiwibank, ASB Bank economists examine 2022 budget
“I’m proud to partner with an organisation that’s passionate about social impact and is making a real difference for Kiwi,” Hirini said. “I understand how sharing my own experiences can influence outcomes for young New Zealanders – whether that be belonging, leadership, or financial security. My experience is that when high performance and care is woven together that gives us the freedom to be ourselves, belong, and succeed.
“It’s hard to be what we can’t see so I’m passionate about inspiring young people through my experience to excel,” she said. “Kiwibank is giving me a platform to authentically tell my story so I can inspire the next generation. I’m all about having the courage to commit to reaching a shared goal and I see this partnership as having great potential. I’m excited to be working with the Kiwibank team to make more Kiwi better off.”
Initially, Hirini will assist Kiwibank in embedding internal cultures and will then share her story and insights with customers, partners, and the wider community.
