6 August 2025
The money helps Plunket to deliver free community services for families, including home visits, new parent groups and parenting programmes.
“This is the 10th year that BestStart have supported us with this amazing appeal – and they generated a record-breaking total this year – we are so grateful for their efforts, ‘’ says Fiona Kingsford, Whānau Āwhina Plunket Chief Executive.
“All sorts of fun activities for tamariki go into the BestStart Butterly Appeal fundraiser, from face- painting to teddy bear picnics and more, we truly appreciate it.”
Over the past 10 years, BestStart centres around the country have raised an incredible $483,000 to support Whānau Āwhina Plunket’s community services, Fiona says.
“BestStart and Plunket are both committed to making a positive difference in the lives of tamariki and their whānau. Our butterfly logo symbolises growth, care and transformation; values shared by both organisations.”
BestStart Howick topped the appeal, raising $2,043. Each team member cooked a dish from a different culture, and they held a Friday takeaway night for local families.
“We are so happy to be this year’s top fundraiser, as it so aptly matches with our philosophy of ‘Bringing communities together from the heart’. This time it was bringing communities together through delicious food,” says Centre Manager, Philomena Lobo.
Image (top): BestStart Howick staff and pupils with BestStart Chief Executive Tony Ryall and Whānau Āwhina Plunket Chief Executive, Fiona Kingsford (both far left, on steps). BestStart Howick raised $2,043, the highest of all the centres nationwide.