Levelling the playing field for Whanganui kids

More Whanganui school children will be able to take part in sport this winter thanks to the Floyd, Toy and Jonas Real Estate Sport Support Fund.

Leighton Toy, Danny Jonas, and Anthony Floyd launched the Sport Support Fund with Sport Whanganui in 2025, to provide financial support for tamariki aged 5 to 12 to play and stay in sport.

Property Brokers’ Leighton Toy says the Fund is for those who may otherwise not have been able to play due to rising costs.

“Sport plays a vital role in kids’ lives, helping to build confidence, friendship, and lifelong skills, while supporting physical health.

“We don’t want cost to be a reason that kids are left on the sidelines. If we can remove barriers to participation and help more kids take part in sport, that’s a great outcome for all of us.”

The fund pays for up to $100 per child, up to twice per year, to help cover registration fees for sport and recreational activities – helping ensure more kids have the opportunity to play and stay in sport.

Since its launch, the fund has distributed close to $700 to cover sport fees/registration costs.

Support is provided through school principals who work with families to identify where assistance is needed.

Sport Whanganui’s Healthy Active Learning Lead, Jen Bagshaw, is encouraging schools and sports clubs to share information and promote the fund during the busy winter registration period.

“While we know that many clubs and codes strive to keep fees as low as possible, it can still be a difficult decision for families whether they can afford to participate.”

“We encourage families to contact their schools early in Term 2 if they need help with winter sport fees. Sport Whanganui can also help with footwear and some sports equipment through the Replay programme.”

Principal of Carlton School, Gary Johnston, says “the Floyd, Toy, and Jonas Sport Support Fund has ensured that our tamariki at Carlton School can engage in out-of-school activities.” 

“Sport is a significant aspect of our kaupapa at Carlton. Our kids are keen, but for many reasons the costs of participating in sports can be a barrier to participation. Working together with the support of the fund, means more of our students get the opportunity to play.

“The Floyd, Toy and Jonas boys have put their money where their mouth is, and we are very grateful.”

Find out more about the Sport Support Fund