Nelson $10,000 for Aitutaki

A Nelson family whose relatives were affected by Cyclone Pat last month felt the pull to contribute in whatever way they could, and ended up raising over $10,000 for Aitutaki.

Rowan Strickland said he managed to raise $3500 at his workplace – donations from concerned colleagues.

His daughters, Renee McCall and Jenelle Strickland, organised a “Housie for Houses” function which generated $8760 in reconstruction funds.

The fundraiser featured 20 rounds of housie, Cook Islands entertainment and an auction of prizes such as a fishing trip, a helicopter ride and a signed Crusaders rugby jersey.

“Businesses have been quick to donate goods and services and some even donated money, which is fantastic,” McCall said. “(We hope) we can make a real difference on Aitutaki.”

The Strickland family donated proceeds to Red Cross to be used for rebuilding homes that were damaged or destroyed during Cyclone Pat.