Auckland City FC Gifts 500 Final Tickets to Honiara Students

In a gesture that has won hearts far beyond the football pitch, Auckland City FC—Oceania’s most storied football club—has teamed up with major sponsor Ockham Residential to donate 500 tickets to the 2025 OFC Champions League Final to students of King George VI National High School in Honiara.

The move comes just days before Auckland City face off against Papua New Guinean powerhouse Hekari United in what promises to be a sold-out spectacle at the National Stadium this Saturday. But for many students in Honiara, the dream of witnessing this continental clash was out of reach—until the Navy Blues stepped in.

The story began earlier this week when Auckland City players visited the school. What was meant to be a simple meet-and-greet turned into something much more profound. Moved by the students’ passion, warmth, and love for the game, the players made a collective decision: they wanted the students to be there.

“The energy from the kids was electric. We knew right away we wanted them in the stands,” said one of the Auckland City players.

With tickets scarce and in high demand, the club rallied quickly. In partnership with Ockham Residential—whose co-founder Mark Todd is currently in Honiara supporting the team—they secured the tickets on behalf of the players.

Auckland City FC’s Chef de Mission, Chris Kemp, hailed the initiative as a reflection of the club’s identity both on and off the field.

“They’re not just great footballers, they’re incredible people,” Kemp said. “This gesture shows the kind of values that run through our squad—community, connection, and compassion.”

The impact was immediate and deeply felt. King George VI Principal Augustine Omearo was visibly moved during the official ticket handover ceremony.

“These tickets will bring a lot of smiles to my students,” Omearo said. “This is something they’ll never forget.”

As the Navy Blues gear up for their record-extending 13th OFC final appearance, they do so with the support of not just their loyal fans back home, but also 500 spirited schoolkids from the heart of Honiara—cheering them on, inspired by football, and touched by kindness.

In a competition defined by passion, this act of generosity adds an unforgettable human touch. For Auckland City FC, the OFC Champions League is not only about silverware—it’s about leaving a legacy where it truly matters: in the community.