Supper Club big hit for generous locals

The generosity and giving spirit of Rotorua locals and businesses has blown away the organisers of the 2015 Ronald McDonald Family Retreat Supper Club.

Last night's event, which auctioned a range of donated prizes, raised $75,441 for the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat at Ngongotaha.

The retreat provides a week away for families affected by a sick child or parent.

Organiser Linley Parry said she was absolutely blown away with the amount raised.

"I am utterly thrilled with our incredible community and their unwavering generosity.

"We were really pleased with the crowd tonight and it is fabulous to see people bidding on prizes in the spirit of charity."

Mrs Parry said the charity event continued to gain momentum each year.

"Every year we see more and more local businesses get on board and donate wonderful prizes for the auction.

"The event proves to be different every year so people keep coming back which is truly wonderful to see."

The grand auction prize, return flights for two from Auckland to Seattle and a seven-night Alaskan Explorer Cruise with Holland America and Hawaiian Airlines, was won by Bunny Ormsby and Adrienna Coll for $11,000.

"I didn't go into the auction thinking I would bid on the big prize, it was a bit of an impulse," Mr Ormsby said.

"I've never been on a cruise before but have always wanted to so when I saw it go up for auction it was the push I needed to just go for it."