Symons Group is proud to support talented people from our region as they pursue opportunities to compete at the highest levels of their sport.
Over the past year, we have been pleased to provide sponsorship support to Taranaki para-athletes Maia Read and Amy Ellis as they continue their journeys in para badminton and para athletics.
Maia Read – Para Badminton
Symons supported Maia Read to represent New Zealand at the 2025 VICTOR Oceania Para Badminton Championships and the international competition held alongside it in Bendigo, Australia.
Maia returned home with three bronze medals from the Bendigo events—an excellent result against international competition.
She went on to qualify for the 2026 BWF Para Badminton World Championships in Bahrain, where she represented New Zealand alongside five other Kiwi athletes. Competing at a world championship marked another significant step in Maia’s developing international career.
Amy Ellis – Road to LA 2028
We are also supporting Taranaki para-athlete Amy Ellis as she works towards her goal of representing New Zealand at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.
Amy is a visually impaired T13 athlete who holds New Zealand records in the 100 metres, 200 metres, 400 metres and long jump. She is also a member of the Halberg Youth Council, where she helps advocate for greater inclusion and opportunities for young people with disabilities.
Her sporting journey has been about considerably more than medals. Through athletics, Amy has developed confidence, independence and a strong platform from which to encourage other young people to participate in sport.
Amy’s immediate goals include continuing to develop as an international athlete and progressing towards qualification for LA 2028.
Backing Potential in Our Region
Maia and Amy have both shown the commitment, resilience and courage required to pursue sport at an international level.
Symons Group is proud to play a small part in supporting their journeys, and we look forward to following their progress.
