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Home / Northland Age

On The Up: Kerikeri philanthropist Judy Beer leaves $1m legacy to Puketī Forest Trust

Sandy Myhre
Sandy Myhre
Northern Advocate Bay News columnist Sandy Myhre.·Northern Advocate·
14 Oct, 2025 10:00 PM2 mins to read

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Judy Beer was a teacher, real estate pioneer and philanthropist.

Judy Beer was a teacher, real estate pioneer and philanthropist.

A well-known Kerikeri real estate pioneer and philanthropist has left a lasting legacy to the Far North after her recent passing.

Judy Beer left $1 million to establish the Judy Beer Fund for the benefit of the Puketi Forest Trust. Her generous bequest will help protect and restore the forest for generations to come.

The fund will be managed by Northland Community Foundation and invested with Craigs Investment Partners to provide annual income and growth.

The gift will exist in perpetuity, with the income from the interest earned each year going back to Puketī Forest Trust.

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“Judy’s contribution is a powerful reminder of what one person’s generosity can achieve,” said Puketī Forest Trust founding trustee Gary Bramley.

“Her gift will support long-term conservation in a way that honours her values and love for the natural world.”

Originally from Southland, Beer’s life took her around the world but it was in the Far North that she eventually settled.

She loved the natural beauty and the sense of community that prevailed.

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After working as a teacher, Beer pivoted to a long and successful career in real estate, founding The Professionals real estate agency in Kerikeri and helping many families in the area into a home.

In retirement Beer found meaning in volunteering, spending countless hours helping at the SPCA and teaching at the local bridge club.

When she updated her will, it followed a conversation with her lawyer and friends that helped her think beyond volunteering.

Beer wanted to give something that would be enduring.

She considered Puketī Forest Trust’s work to be so important and close to her heart that she wanted to contribute through a long-term gift.

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