Tait Communications becomes exclusive critical communications partner to the Crusaders

 Christchurch, 20 February 2026 

 Tait Communications is pleased to announce a partnership with one of the world’s most successful rugby teams – the Crusaders.  

The Crusaders are now operating the same highly secure, encrypted radios trusted by police and emergency services in a new partnership with Tait Communications.

Tait’s Christchurch-manufactured Project 25 (P25) encrypted technology will be used by the rugby club’s players, coaches and wider staff to ensure clear and secure communications at training, charity events and matches.

This means the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific champions can talk freely without competitors listening in, while ensuring high-quality audio as they prepare to win back-to-back titles this season.

Tait CEO and Managing Director Yoram Benit, PhD, says the partnership between two iconic Canterbury brands is a great fit.

“Much like the Crusaders, Tait Communications was born in Canterbury and is known around the world for excellence, reliability and performing during high pressure situations.

“As our founder Sir Angus Tait put it, success comes from unwavering dedication, teamwork in the face of adversity and aiming high. He also staunchly believed in serving the local community, so our values align well with the Crusaders. We’re proud to partner with our local club and ensure they can perform to the highest standards using our secure critical communications solutions.”

Tait’s Chief Legal Officer Penny Hoogerwerf, Customer Success Manager Richard Moot and CEO Yoram Benit with Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge.

Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge says the partnership feels like a natural alignment between two Canterbury success stories.

“Tait Communications is a global success story, trusted by organisations operating in the most demanding environments around the world, yet is deeply connected to Christchurch.

“We care deeply about performing under pressure and Tait’s commitment to reliability and innovation mirrors exactly what we strive for as a club, and we’re genuinely excited about what we can achieve together.”

Tait worked with the Crusaders’ High Performance team to understand their requirements. They needed reliable communications while at training, away games, and under the roof at Christchurch’s new 30,000-capacity One New Zealand Stadium, which opens in April.

The Crusaders have a fleet of rugged P25 encrypted TP9655 portable radios for direct mode communications and accessories, and will be equipped with customised charger carry cases. The wider team will also get the benefit of Tait PTToX push-to-talk over cellular solution so they can speak to each other on their smart devices.

Head Coach Rob Penney says he was impressed by the way Tait took the time to understand how the coaches operated.

“They looked at what we need during live moments and where communication genuinely impacts performance.

“In professional sport, one percent can define a season. Tait has given us far more than that. They haven’t just handed us radios, they’ve built a solution that makes us clearer, more connected and better prepared.”

The Crusaders are the country’s most successful provincial rugby team, winning 13 Super Rugby championships and two Super Rugby Aotearoa titles. The club has produced some of the world’s greatest rugby players, such as Dan Carter and Richie McCaw, and gives back to the community through its Crusade with Heart Foundation.

This Tait P25 technology is the same that is used by police, fire, ambulance and public safety customers around the world. It is currently being rolled out across New Zealand’s emergency services as part of the new Public Safety Network being delivered by Government entity Next Generation Critical Communications.

The Crusaders will be using the same technology that is being rolled out across New Zealand as part of the Public Safety Network. Photo: Next Generation Critical Communications