Matatū unveils new headquarters at Lincoln University
Matatū officially opened its new headquarters at Lincoln University today, marking a major step forward for the team and its connection to the Canterbury region.
The team has largely based itself in Lincoln since its inception, and up until now have been housed in converted offices on the Lincoln University campus.
The new facility is still on the campus, but the team is now housed in a converted football academy building on Ellesmere Junction Road.
The building has been refurbished and totally purpose-built for Matatū - which includes a full team room, changing rooms, separate spaces for support staff including doctors, physios and analysts, and extra offices for coaches and wider staff.
The team will also enjoy access to a newly upgraded field thanks to the support of the Selwyn District Council.
The opening brought together key leaders and community representatives.
A stand-up was held with Matatū General Manager Sarah Munro, Lincoln University Vice-Chancellor Professor Grant Edwards and Selwyn Mayor Lydia Gliddon, each sharing their vision for what this collaboration means for the future.
Matatū General Manager Sarah Munro says the move is about creating a home that reflects the team’s values and ambitions.
“This new chapter strengthens the foundations of women’s rugby in our region and ensures Matatū has the best possible base to succeed,” says Munro.
“What makes today truly special is that this is so rare, not just in Aotearoa but globally. Dedicated facilities for female high-performance sport are almost unheard of. We are proud to be among the first, setting a new standard and proving that women’s sport deserves world-class environments.
“At Matatū, we’ve never been content to follow in anyone’s shadow. We strive to break the mould, to lead, and to inspire, our athletes do it every day, and this space is a powerful symbol of that ambition,” says Munro.
Professor Grant Edwards spoke about the alignment between Lincoln University’s mission and Matatū’s purpose.
“This partnership is about more than bricks and mortar – it’s about creating pathways for women in sport and fostering opportunities that combine education and athletic excellence,” says Edwards.
Matatū Head Coach Whitney Hansen says the significance of this purpose-built facility is not lost on the team.
“This is a huge moment for not only us but women’s sport in general. We’re no longer compromising performance by having to share resourcing – we have this amazing space dedicated to us and we won’t have to make sacrifices for performance anymore as we have everything we need here.”
