Te Hou Ora general manager Terri-Lee Nyman said they were trying to make sure everyone had the chance to go camping.
''We realise how bad the poverty is getting for whanau . . . it is about trying to give these families the opportunity to do something over summer that they may not normally do.''
She said the kaupapa Maori service provider was looking for a range of gear and if anyone had a spare tent, a cricket bat or even fish hooks to give it would be helpful.
An art auction will be held at 7.30pm tonight at Te Hou Ora's Carroll St premises to raise money for camping equipment but people can make donations any time.
''It is to support all whanau in the community, not just Maori whanau but everyone.''
Mrs Nyman said to start with, two complete sets of gear were wanted - enough to cater for two families of six people each.
She said Te Hou Ora could also provide transport to and from the camp if required and staff had compiled a list of free sites within two and a-half hours' drive.
The camping gear will be available from December 16, through until Easter. Anyone who wants to use the gear, or donate some, should phone 474-0266.
