Charitable view of party gifts

Adam Bennett wants foodbank donations for the Salvation Army rather than birthday gifts. Photo / Greg Bowker

An Auckland party promoter has put a charitable spin on his 30th birthday bash tomorrow.

Adam Bennett has invited hundreds of guests and several Auckland DJs to celebrate at The Wharf in Northcote Point.

But instead of gifts, he has requested his friends bring food parcels for the Salvation Army.

Mr Bennett said he came up with the idea when he heard demand for the Salvation Army's foodbank services was increasing.

"I thought I could get two birds with one stone - have my 30th birthday and a charity event."

"We've got people bringing 20 boxes of food each," said Mr Bennett. "We should be able to pull maybe $40,000-$50,000 worth of food."

A television set, a surfboard and a satellite navigation system have been donated as prizes for those who bring the most.

Demand at the Salvation Army foodbanks is up by 45 per cent.

The divisional director for the Army's community ministries, Captain Gerry Walker, welcomed the idea.

"It's an admirable thing to do and we congratulate him for the initiative."

He said donations were up and the foodbank was coping with the demand."We are doing the best we can with the resources we have."