GWM and New Zealand Warriors extend partnership for three more years

Damien O’Carroll
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  • GWM NZ has announced a three-year extension of is deal with the One NZ Warriors.
  • The deal will see GWM continue to supply the Warriors with a fleet of vehicles.
  • It comes on the eve of a massive new model onslaught from the brand in New Zealand.

GWM New Zealand and the One New Zealand Warriors have today announced a major extension to their partnership, securing the automotive brand’s role as a key sponsor for another three years.

The announcement solidifies the relationship that began in 2024 and has since become a cornerstone of GWM’s brand strategy in New Zealand.

One NZ Warriors CEO Cameron George (left), GWM NZ Country Manager Cameron Thomas (centre) and Warriors legend/ambassador Monty Betham (right) at the announcement of the extended deal.

Speaking at the event, Cameron Thomas, GWM New Zealand Country Manager, expressed the company's delight in continuing the journey with the rugby league club. He highlighted how the initial partnership was a pivotal step for the brand.

"When we first joined with the Warriors in 2024, it was GWM's first major sponsorship and first major sports sponsorship as well," he said. "That helped us build up the brand and helped us become more relevant to New Zealand's customers at that time.

The deal sees the continuation of GWM NZ as the official vehicle supplier to the Warriors.

"For GWM, the partnership has been more than just a logo on a shirt. It's been about finding meaningful ways to connect with New Zealanders through sport, community, and culture."

Thomas said that the collaboration had evolved beyond traditional sponsorship into a platform for storytelling and direct fan engagement through initiatives like the "Wahs Selling Cars" series and immersive experiences at the "GWM Sales Stadium" at this year's National Fieldays.

He also noted that the extension aligns with a significant growth phase for GWM, which is expanding its SUV, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid ranges, with a range of new 3.0-litre diesel models launching next month.

The extension. of the deal comes as GWM is planning a huge expansion of its NZ range with the launch of a 3.0-litre diesel Cannon Alpha, among other new additions.

"The Warriors are a natural partner in that journey. This is a club built around performance, resilience, and community and connection - those are the values we share," Thomas added, also making a point to acknowledge the company's pride in supporting the One New Zealand Warriors Women's Team.

"We don't want to be a partnership that feels like a badge. We want to feel like a genuine, connected connection between our two organisations that believe in showing up for New Zealanders."

Representing the Warriors, CEO Cameron George celebrated the continued alliance, praising GWM's contribution to the club's recent success and its integration into the Warriors' culture.

The Haval H7, or Big Dog, as it is called in its home market (and should be here too!), is also on its way to New Zealand shores.

"We simply want to be successful, and to do that, you need great people. Great brands wrapped around you, and GWM are certainly that," said George. "For three years, they've been a part of our footy club, and they've driven us to the success we're realising today, which is a really special thing."

George also spoke to the quality of the partnership and its long-term potential. "I know all of our staff and players rave about the quality of the cars that they drive, and that extends to the quality of people that [GWM NZ] have working alongside us.

"We are excited about the extension, and we only talk three years, but we visualise over ten, twenty, thirty years. That what makes a great relationship; that stability."

The renewed commitment ensures GWM branding will remain prominently featured in Warriors branding, with both organisations looking forward to building on their shared success over the next three years.