Buy the hammer, get a house for it

John Key sizes up the house in his Kumeu electorate which will raise money for charity. The Prime Minister encourages men to follow his example and have yearly prostate checks. Photo / Richard Robinson

There's a bargain in Kumeu today for anyone keen for a hammer - and a house.

More than 100 people are expected to attend the auction with a twist. Bidding is for a hammer, but the house is included and all the money raised will go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the West Auckland Hospice.

About 600 New Zealand men die from prostate cancer every year.

Because many of its customers are middle-aged men, PlaceMakers decided last year to support Blue September with fundraising events throughout the country.

PlaceMakers Kumeu trade manager Neil Killgour and manager Bob Price decided to tackle the house project for "a good cause and a good challenge".

More than 40 local tradesmen and suppliers had pitched in, said Mr Killgour.

Some had put weeks into the work, which started on the first of September.

Prime Minister John Key, who advocates men follow his example of yearly prostate checks, visited the charity house in his Kumeu electorate yesterday.

"It's great what they're doing here, and I wanted to come and support it."

Barbara Williams, chief executive of the West Auckland Hospice, said the house was "an extraordinary gift" which had come from "true generosity of spirit and community good will".

"Every dollar that comes to the hospice will fund specialist palliative care in our community."

Keith Beck, chief executive of the prostate foundation, said the money would go towards research, education and support.

A barbecue and family activities will start at 10am at the auction site, 110 Main Rd, in Kumeu. Ex-All Black Stu Wilson, and former Warrior Stacey Jones will sign any rugby balls visitors bring along.

PlaceMakers CEO John Beveridge said anyone with a flat section should come - "They might get a bargain."