January, 2013
Kia Keeps Halberg Wheels Turning
Kia Motors is extending its support of one of New Zealand’s most recognised and respected charitable organisations, the
Halberg Disability Sport Foundation.
As part of its commitment to supporting local communities and worthy causes, Kia Motors New Zealand has been an
Associate Sponsor of the charitable organisation, formerly known as the Halberg Trust, for more than three years.
Helping to further Sir Murray Halberg’s vision where “all young people, regardless of their ability, should have equal
opportunity to enhance their lives through sport”, Kia’s support has included the provision of vehicles to Foundation
staff and special lease rates for its nationwide fleet.
This month saw the arrival of 10 new Kia Cerato hatchbacks to the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation fleet, joining the
existing Kia Carens which have been specially adapted for wheelchair users, and a Kia Sorento for the CEO Geoff Burgess.
Nicki Turner, National Manager of the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation, is delighted the association with Kia Motors
is continuing into 2013 and says the fleet of Kia vehicles plays an important role in enabling the foundation to move
around the community to further its aims, which includes running the AllSports programme.
“It has been an excellent partnership and we are looking forward to continuing working with the Kia Motors team,
especially at our grass roots level with joining physically disabled young people into sporting opportunities.”
Kia Motors has been a strong supporter of sports people in New Zealand through its sponsorship of local tennis, football
and netball in recent years. But the opportunity to contribute to a cause that provides for many disabled young people,
who may not have otherwise have been able to become involved in sport activities without the ongoing dedication of the
Halberg Disability Sport Foundation, has provided strong motivation for Kia to build on the three-year relationship.
“We strongly believe in the ideals the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation strives to achieve and we are proud to be
able to extend our involvement with a team of people who are making a considerable contribution to the lives and welfare
of this special part of our community,” says Kia Motors New Zealand’s General Manager, Todd McDonald.
Established in 1963 by legendary Olympic gold medalist Sir Murray Halberg, the Halberg Disability Sport Foundation is
dedicated to the welfare of physically disabled young people in this country through its nationwide AllSports programme,
as well as honouring sporting excellence, through the annual Westpac Halberg Awards, which celebrates its 50th year in
2013.
ENDS