A volunteer group which has raised large sums of money for almost 50 years to make sure a small rural hospital has the best equipment possible was named the supreme winner of last night's Far North Community Awards.
Just this year Hokianga Hospital Auxiliary Inc has raised $20,000 for a portable community bed, dressing trolleys and an oxygen concentrator. Previous projects include a $35,000 refurbishment of the maternity ward in Rawene to make giving birth in the Hokianga safer and more comfortable.
The winners of the 2015 awards, which are organised by Trustpower and the Far North District Council, were announced at the South Hokianga Memorial Hall in Opononi last night. More than 120 people, representing volunteer and community groups across the Far North, attended.
Trustpower community relations representative Jess Somerville said the winning group had stood by the Hokianga community for the past 48 years and ensured its medical needs were well catered for.
"There's an incredible story behind this auxiliary group and it's focused around a small but determined passionate team of volunteers. Over the years they've fundraised tirelessly to ensure their hospital is well resourced, not only for additional comforts for clients but essential equipment too."
