Our Story

In 2020, the global pandemic forced many businesses to cease to operate in New Zealand and Bay of Plenty Rugby’s then apparel provider was one such business.  At the same time, the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union’s board was exploring alternative ways to grow their revenue streams. 

 

With its traditional revenue sources (NZR, Commercial Sponsorship & Trust Funding) becoming more and more challenging to generate, Bay of Plenty Rugby’s board seized on an opportunity to fill the gap left by its previous supplier and formed its own apparel company. 

 

ORA Apparel is a locally owned apparel company whose role is to provide Bay of Plenty Rugby Union’s clubs and schools with access to high quality sports uniforms and apparel at extremely competitive prices.   Our uniqueness is threefold:

1.      We only do bespoke (made specifically for you) orders, so we don’t access a bulk storage warehouse stock and screen print/embroider your logo on something.

2.      Our  extensive sport intellectual property in the club and school (community) space means we fully understand your challenges and can tailor any solution to suit you including working through funding applications just to name one.

3.      Lastly, 100% of our profits go straight back into serving the community rugby game in the region.  That’s our sole purpose.

 

Since 2021, the business has toiled away making small inroads into the local market, while operating without an identity or brand.  Then in late 2024, “ORA Apparel” brand was launched.

 

Whilst not a literal translation of Māori into English, ORA is a representation of the vitality that we want our customers to experience – LIFE, HEALTH AND A STATE OF WELLBEING.

 

Now in its fifth year, ORA Apparel is excited at the opportunities that exist to connect with our clubs, schools and local businesses and provide solutions to their apparel challenges.