A new patron initiative, launched at Queenstown's Super 14 game on Saturday at the Queenstown Events Centre, raised $1500 to support local junior rugby and the legacy of the game.
Lakes Leisure Events and Communications manager Karen Gemmell said 25 locals bought the package, developed by Lakes Leisure in partnership with businessman Sir Eion Edgar, which included a $60 donation to the club of their choice - Wakatipu, Arrowtown or Upper Clutha - and aimed to increase children's participation in the sport.
Wakatipu Junior Rugby Club secured $720 through its 12 patrons, with the funds to be used to help families in need pay for season subscriptions.
Arrowtown secured $660 from its 11 patrons which will be used to pay for the junior club's away game transport costs for the season, while Upper Clutha secured $120 for club transport from two Wanaka patrons.
Ms Gemmell said she was thrilled with the support for the new "patron packs".
"This will give kids opportunities they otherwise may not have had," she said.
"The donation to support kids' rugby as part of the pack was well received, and the clubs will use the funds in the way they think will best increase participation.
"The patron packs also came with a bunch of exclusive hospitality benefits, so it was a win-win for everyone."
Wakatipu Junior Club captain John Brooks said the support shown by the patrons would make all the difference to some children.
"Some families, particularly those with two or three kids, really struggle to pay for season subscriptions which might cost them up to $120.
"We really appreciate our patrons supporting our local kids and the future of the game through their generosity."
Although the Highlanders lost 27-41 to the Western Force, the Central Otago premier rugby curtain-raiser was a tighter tussle, with the Rilean Construction Wakatipu Premiers beating Upper Clutha 16-10.
It was the first outing for the Wakatipu team in its new pink uniform, which it will wear at all home games this season to raise money for The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation.
Funds raised on Saturday through the bar and crowd collection had not yet been tallied, but were anticipated to be about $400.
Ms Gemmell said despite the result from the main game, it was a great day out for the 5800 supporters.
"We wanted the Super 14 match to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone so we ramped up the entertainment and hospitality around the game and it's been a real success.
"Families, friends and rugby lovers came from near and far and really enjoyed the all-day nature of it.
"Lots of people came early to see the premier game and the rippa rugby, and stayed on after the Super 14 game for the pool party at Alpine Aqualand.
"As we had hoped, people came and made a day of it," she said.
However, one of the biggest successes of the day was the support from local businesses.
"We worked hard with our sponsors to bring the event to town, and those partnerships were crucial - the event simply wouldn't have happened without them."
