Horror night great for charity

A spooky evening raised thousands of dollars for the Child Cancer Foundation last weekend.

About 90 guests turned out to The White Swan Halloween-themed fundraiser on Saturday night.

Owner Rob Slater said guests walked the red carpet to the $65-a-ticket event, before entering the party through a coffin.

The event raised more than $15,000 for the charity.

Among the items to be auctioned were a sevens blazer signed by former All Black Eric Rush which went for "big money" and an iPhone 5 which was sold for just under $1000.

"The support from both the sponsors as well as the locals and guests was just fantastic," said Mr Slater. "It was a really enjoyable night."

There was also a competition for best dressed, and among the winners were a pair of ghouls and a Freddy Krueger.

Mr Slater said people had made an unbelievable effort.

"It was absolutely amazing," he said.

"It was kind of like walking into a horror show."

Mr Slater said the entertainment by Shaun Preston was also fantastic.

"We look forward to doing it all again next year."