Peace, joy and love – that's what organisers of Kmart's Wishing Tree Appeal are hoping to spread to Bay of Plenty families this festive season.

The message has been shared at an official ceremony, for the launch of Kmart Bethlehem's annual Wishing Tree Appeal.

The incentive, run in partnership with the Salvation Army, is now in its 25th year and is New Zealand's largest and longest running Christmas gift appeal.

The idea is those who wish to get involved can either leave a gift under the tree or make a monetary donation.

Store manager Chris Keyte says the team is upping its stakes this year, with their end goal being to help relieve the pressure for more families.

'The main thing we want to do is get the word out and build community support,” he says.

'They're usually pretty giving anyway. A lot of the time you find people who donate are actually struggling themselves, but they still do what they can to help.

'Seeing that generosity and the effort people put in is one of the most valuable parts of being in my position during this appeal.”

He says the store has once again appointed Gary Taylor as its Wishing Tree champion.

It's a coveted role which Gary says is all about driving the team to get amongst the fundraising efforts.

'The role is all about helping to make Christmas possible, getting the team involved and building an atmosphere of generosity and Christmas spirit.

'This time of year is always busy but we are trying to make it fun. We're getting the staff more involved but the main thing is building awareness.”

Himself, and a group of helpers, are the team behind the launch event, which included the Salvation Army Band, cake, and carols.

'A lot of people do the best they can to give something. They understand people are in need and that any bit helps.”

Salvation Army community ministries manager Davina Plummer says she is appreciative of the community's support during the appeal.

'Families out there are struggling, there are grocery prices going up every week, rent costs are on the rise and so are living costs.

'Everyone wants to be able to afford the ‘nice to have' items and Christmas is a time to relax and celebrate.

'Sadly, there is a lot of stress due to the financial pressure at this time of year. We don't want families to have tension, or parents to fear their children will be disappointed so through Kmart we are able to minimise this and ensure there is peace, love and joy for families during this time of year.”

She's hoping for another successful appeal.

'We'd appreciate donations of all sorts too – it doesn't have to just be gifts, it could be anything – cello tape, gift wrap or Christmas Decorations.”

The appeal is running from today until Friday December 21.

Donations can be made by adding an extra sum to each purchase made in store, by purchasing a bauble tag to hang on the tree, by dropping money into any coin collection box at the register or by donating online.

Alternatively, gifts can also be donated into the gift boxes, located under the tree at the front of the store.