In 2009, North Haven Hospice was “gifted” an incredible group of local volunteer women that were willing to put their ideas, creativity, organisational skills and motivation into fundraising on the charity’s behalf. They called themselves “The Girls Club”. Little did we know at the time, that over 16 years later another amazing group of Whangārei women would be continuing what was first begun with the Xmas Hospice House Tours.
Much has changed over those years but fortunately for North Haven Hospice, much has stayed the same too. The group grew in size, reduced again, with newcomers joining in and others staying on. Homeowners continue to generously open their homes for the cause and a range of sponsors keep up the fundraising support. A name change for the group, a new website, and social media promotion was added while themes came and went. Clusters of properties indifferent localities were sought, more homes added and the number of visitors keep growing.
Jo Slatter, Vanessa Crosby, Jules Bennett, Lisa Anderson, Katy Mandeno and Jade Moore are the new Whangārei Give for Good team for 2026 and are just as committed and dedicated to the Hospice House Tours. They bring their energy and skill sets to create an amazing weekend of stunning interior design, creative spaces, and awesome foodie options, all through the generosity of our local community.
In 2009, $18,500 was raised with 9 homes open to ticket holders. Most recently in 2024, a total of $73,000 was donated to North Haven Hospice and over the last sixteen years, this incredible initiative has contributed more than $300,000 donations!
This year the House Tour is located in the Whangārei Heads and Pataua North and South areas. There’s a draw to win a day trip to the Poor Knights Islands with Dive Tutukaka, a Tectrax electric amphibious boat to cross the estuary and chef-made lunches, as well as VIP Package tickets and souvenir tea-towels for sale.
It’s a self-paced format with house locations released to ticket-holders only shortly before the event. Those who have been before so thoroughly enjoy the day, tickets sell quickly once they are released. It’s a fabulous day out with friends and family, with lots of amazing surprises and rare access to unique, beautiful and architecturally inspiring private homes.
Special thanks also go to the platinum event sponsors, Alan and Jackie Lints from Jackal NZ, and all the other generous businesses and organisations that contribute to making this a fantastic fundraising weekend. North Haven Hospice fully appreciates everyone that gets involved, from the fabulous six organisers to every individual volunteer, supporter, helper and ticket holder.
For those women who began “The Girls Club”, the “Give for Good” team today and everyone who was part of it in between, thank you so very, very, much for creating and building such a lasting legacy.
Tickets can be purchased here.
In 2009, North Haven Hospice was “gifted” an incredible group of local volunteer women that were willing to put their ideas, creativity, organisational skills and motivation into fundraising on the charity’s behalf. They called themselves “The Girls Club”.
September is Wills Month in New Zealand, and we thought we would share the story of a gift with you.
Every day, families in our community experience compassion and care made possible by your support.
Sign up to receive our quarterly newsletter and regular news and events.
