SPONSORSHIPS
Sponsorships
Marlborough Lines Sponsorship Overview
At Marlborough Lines, our sponsorship mission is to: Grow Marlborough Together. We do this by supporting initiatives that align with our mission to foster growth, unity, and sustainability across the region, with a focus on:
Youth Education and Employment – Empowering the next generation through educational and developmental opportunities.
Regional Events – Supporting events that celebrate Marlborough’s unique culture, history, and community spirit.
The Environment – Championing environmental initiatives that protect and enhance our natural heritage.
Sponsorship Proposals and Application Process
Do you have a sponsorship proposal that aligns with our mission and evaluation criteria? To apply please follow the process outlined below.
Evaluation Criteria
Sponsorship applications are evaluated in November and May each year based on the following criteria. Initiatives should meet some, but ideally all, of these points:
Be initiated by Marlborough-based organisations or individuals.
Focus on youth education, development, or employment.
Deliver environmental benefits to Marlborough.
Enhance the region’s profile through commercial, educational, cultural, sporting, or historical contributions.
Benefit a wide audience or community rather than a select group.
Align with Marlborough Lines' commitment to its community role and commercial presence.
Application Steps
Submit your application during a designated funding round by clicking here:
- November - for applications received between 1 May to 30 October.
- May – for applications received between 1 November to 30 April.
We will provide confirmation of submission and its placement in the appropriate funding round within three working days.
If required, we may contact you to provide additional information.
Application Outcome
November funding round decisions are communicated by 30 November.
May funding round decisions are communicated by 31 May.
Together, with our community, we can create meaningful change and strengthen the legacy of Marlborough for generations to come.
Key Sponsorship Initiatives
Through our sponsorship program, we proudly support a range of community projects and events, including:
CACTUS Youth Programme – Developing leadership and resilience in young people.
Garden Marlborough – New Zealand’s premier garden event showcasing regional gardens, workshops, and tours.
Havelock Mussel Festival – Celebrating aquaculture with food and entertainment and supporting charitable causes in our community.
Kārearea Falcons in Schools Programme – Ensuring the future of New Zealand’s native Kārearea and promoting conservation education for students.
Life Education Trust Marlborough – Building children’s self-esteem, health and wellbeing skills.
Life Flight – Providing emergency air rescue services to save lives.
Marlborough Environment Awards – Recognising environmental innovation and sustainability in our region.
Marlborough Community Foodbank – Supporting families and individuals in need.
Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters Omaka Airshow – Celebrating aviation history and regional pride.
Marlborough Lines Science and Technology Celebration – Inspiring innovation and curiosity among youth.
Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 – A hub for sports and community activities.
Marlborough Riding for the Disabled – Providing interaction with horses to enhance health, well-being, and community participation.
Marlborough Sounds Restoration Trust Wilding Pine Eradication Programme – Protecting native ecosystems by removing invasive species in the Sounds.
Picton Dawn Chorus – Restoring native birdlife through predator control for Kaipūpū Sanctuary and the Picton area.
Picton Maritime Festival – Celebrating Picton and the Marlborough Sounds unique maritime heritage.
Pine Valley Wetland Restoration – Rejuvenating wetland ecosystems and native habitats for our community to experience.
School Start First Impressions Marlborough – Helping children begin school with confidence.
Spirit of Adventure Sponsorship
At Marlborough Lines, we believe in investing in future leaders. To support that commitment, we’re excited to be offering two students the chance to take part in the 10-day Spirit of Adventure Development Voyage — a unique opportunity to grow, give back, and shape the future of our community alongside like-minded young people.
About The Voyage
The 10-day voyage aboard the Spirit of New Zealand is more than just a sailing experience — it’s a life-changing journey of personal growth and discovery. Students selected for this unique adventure will be immersed in an environment that challenges, inspires, and empowers them to step beyond their comfort zones and develop into confident, resilient leaders.
The voyage offers a rare chance to disconnect from the digital world, reconnect with nature, and form lasting friendships with other young New Zealanders from all walks of life.
From learning to navigate to working as part of a team, participants will build valuable life skills and return home with a renewed sense of purpose - ready to make a meaningful contribution to their community and beyond.
Application Process
To apply for a placement, please complete the online application form on Marlborough Lines website via the link below.
To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be a current resident of the Marlborough region.
Be 16 years old and enrolled as a Year 12 student.
Demonstrate recent involvement in community activities or initiatives.
Comply with Spirit of Adventure requirements as detailed here - Medical Criteria and Terms & Conditions
To Strengthen Your Application:
Demonstrate your ability to lead by sharing examples of leadership roles you have held.
Include examples of initiative and motivation shown through employment or volunteering outside of school.
Highlight your involvement and achievements in sporting activities.
Closing Date For Applications
Applications for 2026 placements closed on 30 May 2025.
After the closing date, there will be an interview process for short-listed candidates.
