Whitianga bush fire fund now at $15K

The aftermath of the January bushfire near Whitianga. Photo: Brian Rogers

The generosity of the Whitianga community in the wake of January's bush fire has again been proven with a donation of $3500 to the Mayoral Fire Relief Fund.

New World Whitianga owner/operator Stacey Rolton says he and his staff were so moved by the enormity of the fire and the damage they were compelled to try and support those affected.

So the supermarket set up an option for customers to contribute a dollar on top of their purchases to go towards the fund, he explains

'We raised $3000 in just three days during the week of the fire, which was down to the enthusiasm of the New World staff and our customers, who wanted to do something for those affected.”

Stacey and his wife Sally also put in $500 of their own money to take the final total to $3500.

Thames-Coromandel Mayor Sandra Goudie says it's times like these where you see the true character of the Coromandel, 'and people pulling together”.

'I want to personally acknowledge the generosity of Stacey, his wife Sally and the New World family, which includes staff and customers by supporting others in their community affected by the fire.

'This generous donation now brings the Mayoral fund to just over $15,000. A donation of $2000 has also come from Ray White Real Estate Whitianga, who also opened their auction rooms to take donated goods and furniture during the aftermath of the fire.”

Former Hauraki District Council Mayor Basil Morrison JP has been appointed as the independent assessor for the funds distribution.

'Living outside of the district gives Mr Morrison independent perspective when assessing the applications on their own merits,” adds Sandra.

The focus for the Mayoral Fund was to support locals affected by the fire, and to go towards repairing infrastructure like water supply lines, damage to land and property.

Five applications were received and the money is being distributed on the individual merits of each application.

Thames-Coromandel Mayor Sandra Goudie receiving the $3500 donation from New World Whitianga owner Stacey Rolton. Photo: TCDC

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