Hartley and Marree Atkinson represent AFT Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a globally focused pharmaceutical company proudly headquartered in Takapuna on Auckland’s North Shore. While the company operates on an international scale — generating more than $230 million in revenue across over 80 countries — its roots remain firmly local, with a strong commitment to employing, training, and retaining New Zealand talent in highly skilled, future focused roles.
The Atkinsons first connected with the North Harbour Club several years ago through membership, before deepening their involvement in 2026 as sponsors of the AIMES Youth Excellence, Innovation Award. Their decision to sponsor was driven by a genuine desire to give back locally and support pathways for young people to build their skills and futures in New Zealand, rather than feeling they need to head offshore to succeed.
As a business that works extensively outside New Zealand, AFT Pharmaceuticals isn’t always widely known in its own backyard. Sponsoring the North Harbour Club has provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen local connections and engage more deeply with the North Shore business and community ecosystem — something the Atkinsons value highly as a proudly Shore–based organisation.
Although AFT’s activities often take place internationally, the networking opportunities through the Club allow the company to balance its global focus with meaningful local engagement. Being part of the Club enables them to build relationships, stay connected, and participate in initiatives that make a real difference close to home.
Supporting young talent through the AIMES Youth Excellence Awards is a particular source of pride. The Atkinsons strongly believe that young people represent the future and that early encouragement and support can play a powerful role in helping them develop their talents and expertise. They hope their sponsorship contributes in a genuine and practical way to giving North Shore youth the confidence and opportunity to thrive.
When asked what they would say to other businesses considering sponsorship of the North Harbour Club, their advice is refreshingly simple: give it a go. For Hartley and Marree, the experience has been both rewarding and purposeful, aligning strongly with their values and their desire to make a positive local impact.
Above all, they hope their involvement helps create meaningful outcomes for young people in the community. It’s a partnership built on shared values, local pride, and a belief in backing the next generation to succeed.