Christmas is a time when the absence of loved ones is strongly felt.
Waipuna Hospice, in partnership with Hospice New Zealand and Farmers, is giving the community the chance to remember loved ones lost, or unable to be around, with the Remembrance Tree Appeal.
The community is encouraged to leave a message on a Christmas tree for their loved ones and making a donation in return.
This goes directly back to helping those in the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty community facing terminal illness through the work of Waipuna Hospice.
The personal notes are a way for those grieving a loved one or missing someone abroad to gain a little comfort while also helping Waipuna Hospice raise crucial funds to help meet a shortfall in operating costs.