Famed chef Robert Oliver and UNICEF Aotearoa have joined forces to create a fantastic charity auction to raise funds for relief in Tonga, following the devastating eruption and tsunami in December last year.
Running from now until Monday 21 March, the To Tonga With Love auction features a ‘money-can’t-buy’ list of items and experiences, including a costume from the latest Spider-Man film, Jurassic World movie merch signed by Sam Neill and Jeff Goldblum, and a Tongan banquet and opera evening for 20 with performances by Sol3 Mio’s Pene Pati.
Other local goodies include a personalised felted item from comedian Chris Parker, a signed book collection from author Witi Ihimaera and a curated dining experience by chef Ben Bayly at his restaurant, Ahi.
Oliver, who is offering a keynote speech and signed copies of his out of print books, says that: “When disaster struck in Tonga recently, we wanted to find a way to show love and support from Aotearoa. While the state of emergency may be over, children and families in Tonga still need help.”
Two months on from the Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai volcanic eruption which triggered a tsunami, children and families are still reeling from the devastating impacts. All funds from the Trade Me charity auction will go to UNICEF Aotearoa’s appeal for Tonga and help children recover from the trauma, provide recreation kits and strengthen household sanitation and hygiene
Bidding is underway and all the auction items can be found at trademe.co.nz/stores/unicef-aotearoa
