"It was a setback to not benefit from the event last year and we're still in uncertain times, so we've all got our fingers crossed that the event will be enjoyed by over 440 guests."
Hastings Karamu Rotary Club cocktail party co-organiser Angus Thomson says the cocktail party is heading towards being a sellout.
Held on July 30, and MC'd by David Todd of Toddy Talks it will be held at Clubs Hastings, a new venue this year.
A charity auction includes 16 items such as a WWII trainee pilot experience in a 1943 North American Harvard and aquamarine pendant and earrings by Grieve Diamond Jeweller.
An online silent auction is also being held and there will be a raffle during the evening.
Proceeds will help fund several trust programmes including Education Outside the Classroom; an obesity reduction research study; and Youth Potential Academy for at-risk youth as well as contributing 50 per cent of fees for individual athletes in the trust's Athlete Development Programme.
More information and tickets are available at www.thecocktailparty.nz.