Opinion: Generosity Rotorua's biggest asset

Linley Parry, Supper Club organiser was thrilled with the record-making amount raised at this year's event. Photo/Stephen Parker

Rotorua locals never cease to amaze me.

Like any community, Rotorua has its strengths and weaknesses but the trait that outstrips any other is the community's unwavering support for its people.

We've seen three examples of that support just this week.

First the record-breaking amount raised at Wednesday's Supper Club event.

Locals raised $140,000, the most the Supper Club has ever raised, going towards the Ronald McDonald House Family Retreats at Ngongotaha.

The retreats provide a holiday spot for sick children to come to Rotorua with their families.

The Rotorua community gives generously at the charity event every year, knowing the money will go to helping families in need of some relief.

There is never any hesitation or "I'll give more next year" - giving without expectation is just second nature.

And it's not just money and items the Rotorua community gives, it's time too.

On Thursday Rotorua parents Matt and Karen Dawson experienced their absolute worst nightmare when their 6-year-old autistic son James vanished from school.

He was missing for four hours and in that time, news of James' disappearance spread like wildfire online.

James' face was plastered on every Rotorua Facebook page with a call for people to keep their eyes out and alert police if they found him.

Locals who had no connection to the family took to the streets hoping to reunite the boy with his frantic parents.

Speaking with the Rotorua Daily Post after the ordeal, Mr and Mrs Dawson said above all else they were overwhelmed by the support from the community and how families across the city were jumping on board to help out in any way they could.

It is truly heartwarming to see the community I live in always ready to pitch in, no questions asked, when one of its own needs help.

To top it all off, yesterday morning was the Rotorua Child Cancer Charity Breakfast and Art Auction.

The Distinction Hotel function room was brimming with people ready to support a worthy cause.

There are many things Rotorua does well but the kindness, support and spirit of its community is undoubtedly the most invaluable.