Trust for slain teen forms new memories

Lord of the Rings actor Bruce Hopkins will host a gala fundraiser for the Christie Marceau Trust. Photo / NZ Herald

Slain Christie’s parents aim for positive legacy

Lord of the Rings star Bruce Hopkins will front a fundraising dinner in memory of murdered teenager Christie Marceau.

The veteran Kiwi actor, who played Gamling in Sir Peter Jackson's hit movie trilogy, will host the inaugural Turquoise in Heaven charity gala in Auckland next month.

It is hoped the event will raise $15,000 for the Christie Marceau Charitable Trust. Two young people will receive scholarships to an Outward Bound course — something Christie had wanted to do.

The 18-year-old university student died in 2011 after Akshay Chand stabbed her. Chand was on bail, facing charges of kidnapping, threatening and assaulting Marceau two months earlier.

Marceau's parents launched a trust to create a positive legacy that would allow other youngsters to do some of the things she wanted to do.

Up to 200 people will attend the dinner at The Wharf at Northcote Point, on June 14. Guests will include two of last year's scholarship recipients.

"Getting Bruce Hopkins on board as MC is a big boost," Christie's mum Tracey said. "We have a few surprises and there will be a very big announcement made on the night.

"We want Christie to be remembered for who she was, not for what happened to her. This event will help our family create a new outlook and new memories."

Tickets for the dinner and auction cost $150 and a limited number are left.