Rotorua locals rally to support those in need (+video)

081214sp6 Daily Post Salvation Army appeal.

Dozens of volunteers hit the streets last night collecting cans and other non-perishable food items as part of the Rotorua Daily Post and The Hits Food Drive for the Salvation Army.

The Drive was held in three Rotorua suburbs, Ngongotaha, Western Heights and Springfield, and saw hundreds of families reach into their pantries to help out the needy in their community.

All the goods collected are donated to the Salvation Army foodbank, which helps families in need over the Christmas period.

Salvation Army Captain Brian Martin said it was a great night to get out there.

"Rotorua families are so keen to help others in their community, even if they don't have a lot to give themselves, they give what they can and know they will be making a difference for another family.

"The number of requests for Salvation Army hampers has been really high this year and so it's really great to see so many people get behind us and help out."

The drive had volunteers from the Rotorua Daily Post, The Hits, Ritchies Coachlines and Smiths City, with mayor Steve Chadwick and other councillors, along with plenty of others, helping out.

The Ngongotaha Volunteer Fire Brigade and Lake Okareka Rural Fire Force took their trucks to the streets, blaring their sirens and honking their horns, along with the Sulphur City Motorcycle Club, who revved their engines and drew the attention of curious onlookers.

Taliyah Roberts, 10, said it was her second year taking part in the food drive.

"I like doing it because it's fun and it feels good to help out people who don't have much at Christmas."

Taliyah said one of her favourite parts of the collection was meeting new people.

"I just love talking to people and finding out their story. The food drive is definitely something I would like to keep taking part in."