Boxers hit the mark

September's Contractors For Charity boxing match raised more than $26,000, with $11,00 going to The Life Education Trust Northland. Here the trust's mascot Harold the Giraffe receives the donation that packs a punch from Mike Proctor and Te Amorangi Simeon, from Fulton Hogan, who boxed on the night. Photo / John Stone

Four groups have received donations packed with a punch after a Whangarei charity boxing event raised more than $26,000.

The annual Contractors for Charity boxing event "Sock it to em", was held at Kensington Stadium on September 12, with two teams of rival contractors going glove-to-glove in the ring.

The event drew a record crowd of around 900 people, and raised $26,100. In the four years it has been held more than $117,000 has been raised for Northland charities.

This year's two teams - Eagles from the N.E.S.T. in the red corner and Harold's Hero's in the blue corner - comprised workers from Skipps Logging; PanelTec; Northpower; Croft Poles; Kia Tupato; United Civil; Downer; Steve Bowling Contracting; Transfield; Mania Construction; Barfoote Construction; Fulton Hogan; GForce; Cowley's Hire Centre; Totara Contractors; Gough Hammer and Busck Concrete.

Kylie Wech, from Downer, speaking for Contractors for Charity, said without the support of sponsors the "Sock it to em" event would not have gone ahead.

"So thank you again and your support is greatly appreciated," Ms Wech said.

"All together we raised $26,100 on the night, and $4100 will be donated to the helpers on the night, Hurupaki School support group and Hikurangi hockey club, $11,000 will be donated to Northland Emergency Services Trust and $11,000 will be donated to Life Education Trust Northland.

"The night was a huge success and everyone left the event with good memories. We have received positive feedback and hope next year can be even better."

Next year "Sock it to em 5" will be in September. Send queries, including offers to volunteer or get in the ring, to kylie.wech@downer.co.nz or 027837 6939, with more info on the Contractors for Charity Northland Facebook page.