This unprecedented move marks the first ever charity featured on the Northland Taniwha front of jersey. It is a deeply personal gesture by the Semenoff family, who have experienced the impact of cancer within their own whānau and want to support the many Northlanders facing similar challenges.
Harry and Emma have been partners of Northland Rugby since 2019, playing a significant role in strengthening our game and our community. This season, they’re taking that support one step further by using their platform to shine a light on an issue close to their hearts.
“We both have been touched by cancer through family, so we just think it’s a great charity to get behind and support,” said Emma. “To have the Cancer Society out there on the front of the jersey is huge. It needs help and sponsorship to push it, especially in the Far North. We want people to know the support is there for them.”
“We’re incredibly proud to do this. If we can do it, we should do it. We should help people and pay it forward,” added Harry. “For us, it just felt right.”
The impact of this gesture has been deeply felt by the Cancer Society, whose Chief Executive, Andrew Young, described it as a “momentous day.”
“Northland has the highest rate of cancer diagnoses in New Zealand, and the second-highest rate of cancer deaths,” said Young. “This partnership will spark vital conversations, awareness, and connection in our community. Harry and Emma’s generosity is going to have a profound effect, and I’m proud that our team is already working with Northland Rugby to develop resources that will go out into the wider community.”
Angus Rush, Northland Rugby’s Commercial Manager, said the gesture exemplifies the kind of values-based partnerships that Northland Rugby is proud to foster.
“This is about more than just rugby,” Rush said. “Harry and Emma’s decision to give the most valuable sponsorship space on the Taniwha jersey to a community cause shows the depth of their integrity and commitment to our people. We’re incredibly grateful to be aligned with individuals who share our values and our love for Northland. This act of generosity will have an impact far beyond the game.”
This initiative is just the beginning of an ongoing collaboration between Northland Rugby and the Cancer Society, focused on health education, awareness, and providing support resources across the region.
“Rugby is in the psyche of all New Zealanders,” added Young. “This jersey allows us to propel awareness and support into communities that need it the most.”
As the 2025 season approaches, the Cancer Society logo will sit proudly on the chests of our players—an emblem of compassion, community, and a commitment to making a difference.
The new Northland Taniwha playing jersey featuring the Cancer Society will be unveiled in the lead-up to the 2025 NPC season.
