Pride of NZ Awards: Peter Blackwell

About 20 years ago Mr Blackwell organised the first CIB charity auction. It had a lot of interest at the time — but he never dreamed he would raise almost $2 million. Mr Blackwell has headed the police fundraising event since its inception, but this year’s one, in October, will be his last. Since its humble start in 1995 when a group of police detectives gathered at Bureta Park and raised $200, the amount raised has increased each year. Last year's event raised $282,000. Over the past 20 years the total raised has reached almost $2million. More than 40 charities have benefited. Last year, the Tauranga Coastguard was one of the main recipients and bought a new amphibious rescue boat for $250,000, thanks in part to the auction's $80,000 donation. Foundation for Youth Development Tauranga also received $80,000 last year.