Community’s generosity ‘knows no bounds’

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

An “incredible” night was had by all at the Eastland Rescue Helicopter Trust’s 14th annual charity auction on Friday.

The event raised $123,000 for the trust.

“There was an electric atmosphere of excitement in the air,” rescue trust media and event manager Sara McNaught said.

“It was a fun and lively crowd, who supported and dug deep for this critical lifesaving service we have in the community.”

“The amazing support and generosity we get from our relatively small community is both mind-blowing and humbling — it knows no bounds,” rescue trust chairman Patrick Willock said.

“We can only but say a huge thanks,” he said.

Murray Ferris was the master of ceremonies for the evening, along with auctioneers Neville Clark and Peter McGrannachan who entertained the crowds while working their magic on stage.

“There were some incredible auction items this year with a tour of Launch Complex 1 for six people at Rocket Lab in Mahia, a waka experience with Te Aturangi Nepia-Clamp, weekend at Manutuke Eco Retreat as well as a signed New Zealand cricket legends bat,” Mrs McNaught said.

“The Bucket List American Samoa Fishing trip for four people fetched a fantastic $21,500.

“Our guests then danced into the night with Gisborne’s very own Sugar and Soul who kept the dance floor packed until the very end.”