by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 7:15 PM ET, Mon August 24, 2026
Goway and Air New Zealand have been taking their partnership out of the office and onto the cricket pitch.
The two travel companies marked the 25th anniversary of their annual cricket match in Toronto, continuing a late-summer tradition that combines a little friendly competition with a celebration of their longstanding relationship.
Teams from Goway and Air New Zealand gathered at the Toronto Cricket Skating and Curling Club for this year’s match, followed by a reception bringing together employees from both companies.
And while the rivalry may be friendly, there was still a winner.
Air New Zealand took this year’s match, edging out Goway 8.2 runs to 7.7 runs. Goway Destination Specialist Alice Teramoto earned MVP honours.
A tradition 25 years in the making
The annual match has become a fixture on Goway’s calendar and a nod to the company’s deep roots in travel to Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.
“For 25 years now, the Goway vs Air New Zealand cricket match has been a highlight event on the Goway calendar,” said Anthony Saba, VP, South Pacific at Goway, proud Australian, and one of the chief organizers of the event.
“Cricket has been central to Australian and New Zealander culture for over 150 years, and it’s growing in popularity across North America. Nothing speaks to Goway being No. 1 to Downunder, and its global roots, like playing an annual cricket match in Canada. It also highlights the strong partnerships that Goway has forged over the past 56 years, such as our lasting relationship with Air New Zealand.”
For Air New Zealand, the match has also become a symbol of a trade partnership stretching back decades.
“Goway Travel and Air New Zealand share a special trade relationship that dates back many decades,” added Mason Spencer, Account Executive at Air New Zealand, “and a big part of that close partnership is the annual Goway vs Air New Zealand cricket match, played in Toronto each year. It’s a tradition that captures the friendship and mutual respect between Goway and Air New Zealand, both on and off the field, and one Air New Zealand looks forward to being part of for many years to come.”
After a quarter-century of matches, this year’s victory gives Air New Zealand bragging rights; at least until the two teams meet again next summer.
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