Rugby Southland have announced SBS Bank as the new naming partner of The ‘SBS Bank Southland Stags’ for the 2022 NPC Season.

The bank has entered into a wide-ranging partnership with Rugby Southland, involving women’s rugby, junior rugby and rugby in the community.

SBS Bank will also feature on the front of the Southland Stags playing jersey for the upcoming season, replacing Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) Zero fees who have held the partnership for the past 19 seasons.

Rugby Southland General Manager Steve Mitchell says he is excited for the new chapter in the 135 year history of the union, while acknowledging the loyal support from SIT for almost two decades.

“We are really excited to have SBS Bank on board as our naming partner, their ongoing support of the local sporting scene is fully appreciated with their values of community engagement and support closely aligned with Rugby Southland, we look forward to a long and positive relationship," he says.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank SIT for their 19 years of loyal sponsorship and wish them all the best for the future."

SBS Group CEO Mark McLean said the bank is proud to be supporting Southland's rugby-playing communities.

“Extending our relationship with Rugby Southland to include support for the women’s team and the junior programme was a key part of our decision as we want to ensure that we continue to support all aspects of rugby in the region. As a Southland bank, supporting our local communities is an integral part of who we are as an organisation.”

In 2022, SBS Bank will also be a naming partner of Southland Wide Junior Rugby and a proud partner of the Southland Women’s team.