Pukaha was given more than $15,000 from South Wairarapa Vets, and $1000 from the Carterton Lions Club. PHOTO/EMILY IRELAND
Emily Ireland
More than $15,000 has been donated to Pukaha Mount Bruce after the success of the Kiwi Ball, an event organised by South Wairarapa Vets.
Veterinarian Katie Grant of the Ball Committee said they had originally hoped to raise $10,000 for the wildlife centre, but community support for the event had blown that figure out of the ball park.
She said the event went ahead with the support of its major sponsor, animal health company Zoetis.
The Carterton Lions Club were also big supporters of the cause, buying a table at the ball and further donating $1000 to Pukaha.
Pukaha general manager Emily Court said without generous donations like this, Pukaha “just wouldn’t exist”.
“Our operating costs are high, and it does take a lot of time, effort, and investment.
“Without jumping the gun too much, we have got some really big plans for the year ahead, and these cheques will make a really good contribution to a project we will be announcing very soon.”