MEDIA RELEASE
10 April 2017
All Eyes on the Ball: Specsavers teams up with DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017 Match Officials
World Rugby Match Officials will be keeping their eyes on the ball at the DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017 with new
sponsor, Specsavers joining the ranks.
The leading optometry provider has signed on as the official sponsor of the DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017 Match
Officials. All referees with duties at the tournament will don a new strip in the eye catching green and white
Specsavers colours. This will be seen by an estimated 20,000 international fans joining tens of thousands of Kiwis for
the six-week match series, with millions more watching around the globe.
The 2017 British & Irish Lions will play 10 matches on their tour of New Zealand including three test matches against the All Blacks.
Specsavers is proud to offer support to the Match Officials to ensure they are match-fit.
Specsavers New Zealand Country Director, Brendan Thompson says, “We are privileged to be able to back what promises to
be a fantastic series with the British & Irish Lions in New Zealand. Specsavers has a long history of sports partnerships and this year also marks the second
year of supporting the Investec Super Rugby referees as well.
“With 52 stores across the country we know just how rugby-mad Kiwis are and we’re pleased to ensure the Match Officials
have the best possible vision on the field to correctly make spilt-second decisions in front of some of the best rugby
players in the world and eager, enthusiastic fans,” says Brendan.
New Zealanders are being urged to take the same priority with their own eye health as more than one million Kiwis over
the age of 18 haven’t had an eye exam in the past two years.
“We encourage all New Zealanders to get match-fit in advance of the series, ensuring you’ve had your eyes tested within
the past two years. Whether you’re playing or watching the game, optimum vision is key,” says Brendan.
Nigel Cass, DHL New Zealand Lions Series General Manager says the partnership with Specsavers covers a pivotal role of
the Series.
“The 2005 Lions Series captivated the country and we are excited to be working with Specsavers for the 2017 Series,
which is shaping up to be the biggest international event New Zealand will host for some time.
“The overall physical and mental condition of the DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017 Match Officials is very important to
us and that includes their eye health. With Jaco Peyper, Jerome Garces and Roman Poite already named as the referees for
the three All Blacks test matches, this partnership with Specsavers supports the high standards for referees to be in
optimum condition for peak performance,” says Nigel.
Specsavers recommends every New Zealander gets a comprehensive eye examination every two years from the age of three. AA
members, and those under the age of 16 can have their eyes examined at Specsavers for free, for everyone else,
Specsavers are offering half price eye exams for the month of April.
-ENDS-