NZME and Canterbury Cricket team up to bring Super Smash to Christchurch this summer

New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME) has announced an exclusive partnership with Canterbury Cricket to promote the Canterbury Kings and Canterbury Magicians matches at Hagley Oval during the Super Smash series next January.

This premier domestic T20 cricket competition brings together New Zealand’s top players for fast-paced, family-friendly action across five double-header match days, with the Kings (men) and Magicians (women) playing back-to-back, culminating in two exciting finals showdowns. Each event will feature live music, high-energy entertainment, fan activations, and premium hospitality, creating a vibrant summer celebration of cricket, community and culture.

The dynamic alignment marks another step in NZME’s commitment to the South Island and strengthens its growing presence in Christchurch. Together, Canterbury Cricket and NZME will deliver an integrated partnership across The Hits and the New Zealand Herald, creating powerful opportunities to connect with local fans and showcase the excitement of live sport in the Garden City.

Danny Valentine, NZME General Sales Manager, says the partnership is a win for Canterbury cricket fans: “Hagley Oval is one of New Zealand’s most iconic sporting venues and cricket is a huge part of Christchurch’s summer culture. We’re thrilled to help bring the magic of Super Smash to more fans, demonstrating our support for the Kings and Magicians and continuing to expand NZME’s reach in the region.”

Janine Tindall-Morice, NZME Regional Head – Southern Commercial, says the new partnership further builds on NZME’s support of sport in the Canterbury region: “We’re incredibly proud of our successful partnerships with T20 Black Clash, Cup Week racing at Riccarton, the Mainland Tactix and Netball New Zealand, and this new partnership with Canterbury Cricket marks an exciting new chapter as we expand our support for regional sport, connecting with audiences and delivering real value for our partners.”

Richard Brewer, Canterbury Cricket CEO, says the partnership is a natural fit: “NZME’s ability to connect with fans across multiple platforms makes them the perfect partner to showcase Super Smash in Canterbury. We’re looking forward to welcoming fans to Hagley Oval for five incredible days of cricket this summer.”

The Canterbury Kings and Canterbury Magicians will play on 1, 10, 21, 23 and 25 January 2026, with the Elimination Final on 30 January and the Grand Final on 31 January. Tickets and match details available via Super Smash.