This summer, KFC is supporting Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) through their busiest time of year with a charity auction on Trade Me. The auction features 7 unique items donated by famous kiwis, with all proceeds going towards the charity. KFC has been an official gold partner of SLSNZ since 2012, raising over $750,000 for the national association to date.
The drowning rate is consistently the third highest cause of unintentional deaths in New Zealand, surpassed only by road vehicle crashes and accidental falls. Surf Lifeguards work to prevent drowning on New Zealand beaches, and have saved more than 13,700 lives over the past decade.
Every year the KFC summer appeal aims to raise money for SLSNZ to continue keeping kiwis safer at the beach, with funds needed this year to support the 4,500 volunteer lifeguards on duty over the summer.
Geraldine Oldham, GM of Sales & Marketing at Restaurant Brands, says “we’re proud of our partnership with SLSNZ. The auction is a great way to draw attention to the work the essential rescue service undertakes, keeping kiwis safer over summer.”
One of the auction highlights is a Harmonica and a signed photo donated by Kiwi musician and SLSNZ ambassador and lifeguard, Jamie McDell. This harmonica is made by Hohner, a German brand synonymous with high quality harmonicas since the mid 19th century. Jamie says this harmonica has travelled with her to Bali on song-writing trips, where she used it to compose new tunes. The harmonica also comes with a signed and previously unreleased poster.
Another highlight is a pack of KFC’s finger lickin’ goods, including the pop culture sensation that is the limited-edition KFC candle. Aside from the KFC scented candle there are five separate pieces of KFC merchandise for your summer, and $200 in KFC vouchers. Other items are donated by freestyle skier Byron Wells, pro surfer Ella Williams, the Crusaders, surfer and all round waterman Daniel Kereopa, The Highlanders and Olympic slopestyle skier Anna Willcox.
The auction will be active from Sunday the 22nd of January to Monday the 30th of January.