byGrace Buchan/14 April 2026/inKia News

Crusaders and Miles Kia Say Goodbye to Apollo Stadium in Historic Farewell

Friday, April 3, 2026 marked the end of an era.

The Crusaders took the field at Apollo Stadium for the final time before moving to Christchurch’s new home at One Stadium. In true Crusaders fashion, they delivered a commanding 69–26 win over the Fijian Drua, closing out the night with both celebration and significance.

Apollo Stadium has been more than a venue. Built in the wake of the Canterbury earthquakes, it became a symbol of resilience, pride, and community. For over a decade, it has been a place for Cantabrians to come together, cheer, and rebuild a sense of normality.

A Full House, A Special Atmosphere

The stands were packed, a sea of red and black filling the stadium as fans turned out in force to farewell a ground that has meant so much to so many. That energy carried through the evening, and for Miles Kia, it made hosting the halftime activation, Roll for the Ride, all the more special.

A Halftime Moment to Remember

Roll for the Ride launched in late January, inviting entries from across Canterbury for the chance to take part in something unique, with the opportunity to win a brand new Kia Stonic.

By game night, anticipation had been building for weeks. Under the lights of a packed stadium, that moment finally arrived. Each contestant raced a tyre down the field, around the posts, and back again. Fastest time wins. What followed was pure entertainment, with wobbling tyres, bursts of speed, and a crowd fully locked in on every run.

Person rolling tyre for roll for the ride at crusaders last game at apollo miles kia

Miles Kia and the Crusaders Partnership

Miles Kia is proud to be a sponsor of the Crusaders, supporting one of New Zealand’s most iconic sporting organisations.

This partnership is about more than sport. It is about community, shared experiences, and being part of the fabric of Canterbury life. Being part of the Crusaders’ final game and 100th win at Apollo Stadium, and bringing Roll for the Ride to life on such a significant night, was a privilege.

A Night to Remember

As the final whistle blew and celebrations began, there was a real sense of reflection across the stadium. A win for the Crusaders, a milestone for the city, and a farewell to a ground that has shaped Christchurch’s modern sporting history.

For Miles Kia, it was an honour to stand alongside the Crusaders as a proud partner and play a small part in such an unforgettable evening. Apollo Stadium may now close its doors to rugby, but the memories made there will carry forward. Here’s to the next chapter at One Stadium, and to many more moments shared with the Canterbury community.