Anonymous donor gives SPCA $5000

The Wairarapa SPCA Op Shop in Masterton, where an unnamed benefactor dropped off a donation of $5000. PHOTO/FILE

A woman wishing to remain anonymous left a donation for $5000 at the Wairarapa SPCA Op Shop late last week.

Op shop volunteer Ross Nixon said the woman's gift had been inspired by a fundraising initiative that he launched earlier this week.

Since Mr Nixon had gone public with the initiative, which will see weekly donations going into the Wairarapa SPCA's bank account for a year, five people had signed up.

Wellington SPCA chief executive Steve Glassey said the "incredibly generous" donation would go towards supporting Wairarapa animals in need.

"It is wonderful to receive such a generous gift and I'd like to personally thank the donor for getting behind us."

Mr Glassey said although there was "great emotional support" from the Wairarapa community, it needed to be matched financially or the district could lose its SPCA.

"It is encouraging that the community are rising to the challenge and giving generously."

Wellington SPCA has been administrating the Wairarapa SPCA and providing inspectorate services since mid-January.

Since restoring these services, Wellington SPCA inspectors have investigated more than 70 animal neglect and abuse cases in Wairarapa.

Mr Glassey said the fundraising team was working hard to raise the funds needed to support Wairarapa's SPCA services.

Their next event is at the Martinborough Town Hall on May 14, where they will microchip pets for a donation.

All donations made through Wellington SPCA that are specified for the Wairarapa are put directly into the Wairarapa SPCA account.

To support the Wairarapa SPCA, contact the fundraising team on (04) 389 7387.