An exciting new sponsorship agreement has been made between one of the oldest brass bands and the oldest building society in New Zealand.

Nelson City Brass, formed in 1857, has signed a multi-year naming rights sponsorship agreement with NBS Building Society. The band will now be known as NBS Nelson City Brass.

Huge boost

With economic concerns in all countries following the COVID-19 pandemic, the news is seen as a huge boost to the band from the South Island that played its first notes five years before the Nelson Building Society opened its doors — and secures the financial viability of the band into the future.

NBS has agreed to take up naming rights of the band which has enjoyed significant success over the last few years including three national titles and earning promotion to an 'A Grade' status.

They are conducted by Nigel Weeks who led the band to the 2019 B Grade National Championship title.

NBS has agreed to take up naming rights of the band which has enjoyed significant success over the last few years including three national titles and earning promotion to an 'A Grade' status4BR

Beneficial

Band Secretary Wayne Jennens told 4BR: "We see this as a mutually beneficial arrangement for both organisations and are excited to have them on board as naming rights sponsor".

The band has regularly undertaken concerts in their local community and runs a successful concert series, with their first post-Covid concert, entitled 'A Celebration' due to take place on Sunday 13th September at the Annesbrook Community Centre, dependent on ongoing guidelines and regulations.

Exciting link

In announcing the news, NBS Commercial Manager Howie Timms told 4BR: "This is an exciting new link between our two institutions, and we look forward to a close working relationship with this amazing group of musicians."

The new partnership will sit alongside the support the band already receives from the Nelson City Council.