Z cash for more good deeds

Part of Z Kaitaia's rebranding exercise earlier this year was a promise to donate $5000 to four local charities, with customers deciding how the money should be shared. And last week that promise was kept, cheques going to the Kaitaia SPCA, Kaitaia St John, Kaitaia Volunteer Fire Brigade and Far North Victim Support.

"A lot of people don't understand that these organisations are voluntary and depend on funding to survive," service station owner Leticia Allan said.

"We were keen to choose charities that were very much based in the Kaitaia area."

With 220 Z service stations around the country, a total of $1.1 million would be given away, she added, while charities will be invited to apply later this month for inclusion in a similar promotion next year.

Meanwhile St John received $1900, acting station manager Tracy Graham saying it would be invested in training volunteers.

SPCA president Raewyn Jackson thanked Z for its $1250 "on behalf of the animals." The society's share would be spent on de-sexing and finding new homes for cats and dogs.

The Kaitaia Volunteer Fire Brigade received $1150.

"It really is rewarding to see something like this, as we are volunteer-based. For Z to do this, it's a really great thing," deputy Chief Fire Officer John Whitlow said.

June Armstrong said Far North Victim Support's share, $700, would be used to help meet volunteers' travel costs.