Forgotten Millions: John Key pledges to match refugee donations

John Key and Rachel Smalley at the Forgotten Millions Gala Dinner. Photo / Norrie Montgomery

Prime Minister John Key tonight promised to match dollar-for-dollar money raised by the Herald and World Vision Forgotten Millions campaign.

Key was one of more than 300 people at a gala dinner and charity auction. The black-tie event was hosted by Rachel Smalley at SkyCity's Auckland Room.

Mike Pero, Rachel Pero and Don Brash at the gala dinner. Photo / Norrie Montgomery

He plegded Government funding - doubling the $1.3 million raised so far to help refugees in war-torn Syria.

Forty-five auction items are up for grabs, including a luxury golfing trip at the Kinloch Club, high-fashion items from Trelise Cooper and Crane Brothers and a hunting retreat in the King Country.

Toni Street and Matt France. Photo / Norrie Montgomery.

Key donated an afternoon tea for six people at his Helensville electorate office and the Kiri Nathan-designed dress Smalley is wearing will also be auctioned.