Christmas spirit alive and well

Chris and Rachelle Duffy of Little Big Markets have established a trust for Tauranga's Christmas in the Park so everyone can give back to the community. Photo/supplied

The Christmas in the Park crowd will get a large slice of heaven when they turn up to Blake Park.

Kiwi music legend Dave Dobbyn has been signed up as one of the star attractions and he'll be performing an array of hits on the night.

Dobbyn will be joined by Julia Deans, Beau Monga and Tiki Taane, all taking to the stage during the event.

Money raised from the gold coin entry donation to the event will go towards those in need of help in our community.

What's more, event organisers Rachelle and Chris Duffy have recently formed Tauranga's Christmas in the Park Charitable Trust and are calling for nominations of individuals, families and organisations who may need the support.

"Our aim is to bring the community together to enjoy a full day of entertainment, while also encouraging 'giving back' so we can directly support families, local charities and community groups in need," says Rachelle.

Since the inaugural event in 2011, the Bay of Plenty public have turned out not only to support the event and but to give monetary donations and gifts for less fortunate children, helping make a big difference in many local people's lives.

"To date we have raised over $40,000 for local charities, provided trailer loads of food to the Tauranga Food Bank and donated children's Christmas gifts to Homes of Hope," says Rachelle.

"We have seen first hand the large impact that even small donations can make to individuals and families who are facing hardship and wanted to form the Trust so we can continue to support these people directly through this event."

Many local Bay of Plenty businesses and individuals have contributed to the trust's charitable success over the last five years, so if you would like to make a positive contribution to your community this Christmas by donating goods, services or volunteering your time, Rachelle urges you to get in touch via the trust website.

This year, organisers hope to raise over $50,000 for the poor members of the local community, but needs the rest of the community's help to do so.

"We encourage everyone to help us to spread the word about the occasion, because the more people that come and join in the celebrations with their local community, the more, collectively, we are able to give back," says Rachelle.

To benefit from the proceeds of this event, submissions and nominations are now open online at www.littlebigevents.co.nz/christmas.

The trust would love to hear from anyone who may need extra support; whether it is to help realise a lifelong dream, cover some urgent medical costs or nominate someone to help them get through the festive season.

Event organisers are also asking members of the public to continue to bring non-perishable food items and Christmas gifts for children which will be collected at the event and donated to the Tauranga Food Bank and Homes of Hope.

¦For more information about Tauranga's Christmas in the Park or if you want to volunteer to help at the event or have time, services, goods or money to contribute, visit www.facebook.com/taurangaschristmasinthepark

the fine print
What: Christmas in the Park
Where: Blake Park
When: Saturday, December 19, 2-9.30.