Canterbury
Pentland Group · New Zealand
Canterbury is a rugby-focused sportswear brand founded in 1904 in Canterbury, New Zealand, by three English immigrants. Wikipedia lists Pentland Group as owner since 2012, and this has not been confirmed for 2026.
| Founded | 1904 |
|---|---|
| Founders | John Lane, Pringle Walker and Alfred Rudkin |
| Origin | Canterbury, New Zealand |
| Owner | Pentland Group (listed as owner since 2012) |
| Segment | Sportswear and outdoor |
| Website | canterbury.com |
What is Canterbury?
Canterbury of New Zealand is a sportswear brand centred on rugby. It makes jerseys, protective gear, boots and balls, and also casual wear including shorts, T-shirts, polos, jackets, hoodies and socks, plus bags, backpacks, hats and scarves.
History
The company was founded in 1904 in Canterbury, New Zealand, by John Lane, Pringle Walker and Alfred Rudkin, three English immigrants. Its head office is in Avondale, Auckland, while Wikipedia gives London as its global headquarters and lists satellite offices in Sydney.
Ownership
Pentland Group is listed as owner since 2012. The source does not confirm that this still applies in 2026.
Sponsorships
- Rugby: New Zealand All Blacks, Crusaders, Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Highlanders, Queensland Reds, Bath Rugby, Scotland, and South Africa's Lions and Sharks.
- Cricket: the New Zealand Black Caps.
- Other sports: New Zealand Warriors and Canberra Raiders in rugby league, and Melbourne Football Club in the AFL.
Business model and distribution
The source reviewed does not describe sales channels in detail. As a team-sports brand, its business combines kit supply agreements with sales of replica and casual products through sports retailers and online.
Why it matters
Canterbury is one of the best-known rugby brands in the world, with a long association with the All Blacks and a large number of professional teams.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Canterbury?
Wikipedia lists Pentland Group as owner of Canterbury since 2012. The source does not confirm whether that still applies in 2026.
Where is Canterbury from?
Canterbury is from New Zealand. It was founded in 1904 in Canterbury by three English immigrants and has its head office in Auckland.