Giant garage sale proves a huge hit with Aucklanders

The overwhelming support of Aucklanders for the inaugural Bank of New Zealand Get Organised Auckland event has raised close to $400,000. It will secure the future of the country's only child crisis teams helping those of the region's children affected by domestic violence. The Bank of New Zealand's Get Organised spokeswoman, Lynley Kirk-Smith, says the success of the event will also allow Preventing Violence in the Home to expand its 24-hour national helpline. Thousands of people flocked to the ASB Showgrounds the weekend before last, with most of the goods donated sold by Saturday night. Only a few books remained unsold by Sunday night. The event's success was made possible by an incredible logistical effort by hundreds of volunteers.