Hospice event sparkles

People mix and mingle at the glamorous new Cranford Hospice's fundraiser Sparkle, held at Mana Lodge.

Hawke's Bay "sparkled" at the weekend with a showcase of the region's finest food, wine and entertainment.

Cranford Hospice's new annual fundraiser Sparkle, an exclusive black-tie event, was held at Mana Lodge on Saturday evening.

Shirley Collins, fundraising, communication and marketing manager for Sparkle, said the inaugural event was "absolutely amazing".

"The food and music were both so good people weren't sure whether to eat or dance.

"We were wanting to put the fun back in black-tie fundraiser."

She was confident her team had raised more than $70,000 for the Cranford Hospice.

The event was attended by 300 guests including Lady Deborah Holmes, Alison Mau as MC, and entertainment from John Fletcher and the Big Jazz Band.

The 175 lucky ladies there went home with a a sparkly star courtesy of Unio Goldsmith.

Dozens of local businesses, restaurants and wineries had supported the event.

Ms Collins said organisers had already taken a load of bookings for next year's event.

A service of Presbyterian Support East Coast, Cranford Hospice requires more than $2million each year to provide its services to the people of Hawke's Bay.

Cranford Hospice's general manager, Helen Blaxland, said she was humbled by the generosity of the Hawke's Bay community.

"It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm and creativity of this fundraising initiative - my personal thanks to the volunteer committee, the Presbyterian Support East Coast fundraising team, all the supporters and, of course, everyone who bought tickets."