A one-of-a-kind golf tournament’s being held next month, fundraising for an equally unique charity.
Sir Michael Hill’s opening the gates to his private Arrowtown golf course, The Hills, on Monday, April 22, for an exclusive golf tournament raising funds for Southern Lakes Sanctuary (SLS), one of New Zealand’s largest conservation organisations.
The consortium of six environmental groups works to increase biodiversity, control predators and protect Southern Lakes’ native species.
SLS project director Paul Kavanagh says the golf tournament’s an opportunity for people to experience one of the world’s most picturesque golf courses and ensure local native taonga continue to thrive.
‘‘We are very fortunate and grateful that the Hill family, as one of our benefactors, are supporting us with this fundraising event.
‘‘It is guaranteed to be a wonderful day out, when the autumn colours of Arrowtown will be at their best.
‘‘We encourage locals to get a group together, whether it’s friends, family or colleagues, and join us for this special day at The Hills.’’
Entry costs $3200 for a team of four — just 80 tickets (20 x four balls) are available, which includes a golf cart, on-course food and beverage and post-match canapes.
A fundraising auction, including golf memorabilia, experiences and artworks from Michael Hight, Romer Gallery, Sir Michael and Christine, Lady Hill, will be held after the tourney, with all proceeds going to SLS.
Initially supported by the government’s Jobs for Nature programme — which faces a funding cliff in June this year — SLS is seeking $1.5 million annually to sustain its essential conservation work.
‘‘It’s crunch time for us now,’’ Kavanagh says.
‘‘Our Jobs for Nature funding is about to end, and through the generosity of people in our district, we can truly make a difference to protect the biodiversity and beauty of this special part of the world.’’
The SLS fundraising golf day tees off at 11am on April 22 — to book a spot, email [email protected], or phone 03 409 8290.
