A Milestone Opportunity to Showcase ReSport's Growing Impact

ReSport Charitable Trust recently welcomed Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon to our Whangārei headquarters, providing a valuable opportunity to share the journey, impact and future direction of our organisation.

Led by ReSport Co-founders Joey Yovich and JP Dignon, the visit showcased how quality donated sports equipment is collected, sorted and redistributed to schools, clubs and community organisations across Te Tai Tokerau, while retired sports textiles and end-of-life gear are repurposed through innovative circular solutions.

Since launching in 2023, ReSport has collected more than 15,600 donated sports items and redistributed over 10,200 pieces of sports equipment. More than 7,000 sports textiles have been repurposed, 510 kilograms of end-of-life sports gear diverted into concrete manufacturing, and an estimated $1.2 million in economic value returned to Northland by helping families access quality sports equipment at no cost.

One of the highlights of the visit was hearing from Chris Cox of EnviroWorks Hikurangi Rugby Football Club Under-14s, who shared the difference ReSport has made for his club and the families it supports. His story reflected the dedication of volunteers across Northland who work tirelessly to ensure tamariki and rangatahi can continue playing the sports they love.

We extend our sincere thanks to Lloyd Budd, National Party Candidate for Whangārei, for creating the opportunity to showcase ReSport and the positive outcomes being achieved across our region.

Thank you also to CDL Group Ltd for their unwavering support from day one and for continuing to believe in ReSport's vision as we grow our reach and impact throughout Northland.

A special acknowledgement goes to PDC Purpose Driven Creative, our creative partner, for capturing the day and continuing to help share ReSport's story with our community.

Finally, thank you to our trustees, volunteers, funders, business partners, schools, clubs, community organisations and everyone who has donated sports gear or supported our kaupapa. Every contribution helps create opportunities for young people while giving valuable sporting resources a second life.

The Prime Minister's visit was an important milestone for ReSport—not simply because of who visited, but because it recognised what can be achieved when communities, businesses and volunteers work together to create practical solutions that benefit people and the environment. As ReSport continues to grow, we remain committed to ensuring more Northlanders can access the equipment they need to participate, belong and thrive through sport.

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