Major sponsor Craigs Investment Partners sponsored "Birdies for Charity", which saw the company donate $10 to a pool for every birdie scored by pros and amateurs for the duration of the tournament — the public could also contribute via text message, or a Givealittle page.
A total of 2416 birdies were scored which, together with public donations, raised $26,000, to be shared between Cure Kids and the Acorn Foundation.
Cure Kids CEO Frances Soutter says the money will directly support research on big health issues impacting the lives of our tamariki, while Acorn Foundation CEO Lori Luke says they’ll use it to contribute to the Vital Impact Fund, which provides support to organisations working in the areas of greatest need in the Western Bay of Plenty.
Craig’s also hosted and donated prize money for a "Closest to the Pin" comp for spectators over the tournament’s last two days — in return for a donation to LDART, people had two cracks at glory.
Queenstown’s Jimi Ramsay and Geraldine’s Matt Morrison were the winners — they both received $3000 and a PowerShot Golf laser range finder, courtesy of Canon Oceania.
Morrison: "The Lakes District Air Rescue Trust is such a worthy recipient of the money raised.
"It was awesome to have a bit of fun and donate to the trust — none of us ever wish to require this service, but when the time comes, we’re all incredibly grateful to call on it."
LDART chair Jules Tapper says emergency chopper services in the South have "never been fully funded by the government agencies who call it out".
"Craigs’ and the public support was very welcome."
Craigs head of private wealth and markets Jeremy Williamson says when the company joined the tournament it was keen to promote "golf for good".
"We’re delighted to see the skills of those on the course and the generosity of spectators helping us make meaningful charity contributions while bringing people together for fun and competition."
NZ Open chair John Hart says Craigs demonstrated the "true spirit" of the tournament, and used the power of the golf community to support those in need.
"Their efforts in raising funds for charities makes a real difference, and we are honoured to have them as part of our NZ Open family."
