New fashion label launch used for foodbank appeal

Mount Maunganui Augustine store manager Holly Sorato is preparing for the fashion show on Tuesday night. Photo/Joel Ford.

The fashion show to launch a new top Kiwi designer's new label will be used to support the foodbank Christmas appeal.

Kelly Coe, owner of Augustine International, is launching new label Harlo at a Mount Maunganui show for VIP clients tomorrow night and is asking everyone to contribute to the Bay of Plenty Times Christmas appeal.

"We've got 150 people coming, so it will be a good opportunity to get them all to bring a can of food," she said.

"It's such a hard time of year for people as well having to spend for Christmas. I just feel horrible for the families who can't afford to put food on the table."

Ms Coe said since having children she could not stand the thought of other kids going hungry.

"My children love Christmas. They get so spoilt at Christmas by the family so it's cool that we can do something for other families at Christmas."

Generous Tauranga residents have already donated more than $12,000 in food and cash only two weeks into the appeal.

Residents of Somervale Retirement Village delivered about six boxes of food and baby products to the Bay of Plenty Times office as part of their weekly shopping trip.