When the Bay of Plenty Steamers take the field in the ITM Cup this year they'll have grower-owned post harvest kiwifruit operator EastPack supporting them every step of the way.

The EastPack name will appear on the sleeve of Steamers' jersey as part of a recently signed sponsorship agreement with the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union.

Eastpack CEO Tony Hawken enjoys a test of manhood with Steamer Jason Hona.

The agreement also includes sponsorship of the EastPack Bay of Plenty Rippa Rugby World Cup competition, which will see more than 1600 children from the eastern, western and central Bay of Plenty battling it out for the regional title.

EastPack, which has operations in Te Puke, Edgecumbe and Opotiki, is the second biggest kiwifruit post harvest operator in New Zealand and the leading supplier of Gold kiwifruit.

EastPack chairman Ray Sharp says the sponsorship of the BOPRU, which is celebrating 100 years of rugby this year, is an exciting opportunity, and a unique way to give back to the local community.

'As a grower-owned cooperative we are a big part of the community and it's important that we give back to our growers and to the region,” says Ray.

'EastPack (formerly known as Rangitaiki Fruit Packers) originated in Edgecumbe back in 1983 and since then we have steadily grown and increased our market share.

'We have a reputation for consistently delivering one of the highest orchard gate returns in the industry. 'Like the Steamers, we are high performers and focused on being the best we can be.”

The BOPRU sponsorship also provides EastPack with hosting opportunities to strengthen business alliances and raise awareness of the EastPack brand above and beyond the kiwifruit industry.

Ray is excited about EastPack's sponsorship of the Rippa Rugby competition.

'To see 1600 rugby mad youngster being active and enjoying Rippa rugby is magic, and I'm proud to know that EastPack is playing a role in supporting our next generation.”

BOPRU chairman Bruce Cameron says the union is pleased to be able to welcome EastPack as a partner of rugby in the Bay of Plenty region.

'It is great that Eastpack are supporting the Bay's flagship team as well as the Bay's flagship provincial grassroots tournament – the EastPack Rippa Rugby World Cup,” says Bruce.

'Rippa rugby is a brilliant way to get kids, both boys and girls, active and familiar with the oval ball game plus it is a tremendous community builder.

'EastPack are a well-respected organisation and a strong contributor to the Bay of Plenty community.

'We are sure through this partnership we can deliver good outcomes both on and off the field.”