Countdown staff across the Bay have come up with inventive ideas to raise money for the 2014 Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal.

Both Tauranga and Whakatane hospitals have benefited from this fundraising initiative, which has raised nearly $7 million since 2007 to help change the lives of sick Kiwi kids.

Countdown staff have been helping raise money as part of the appeal since 2007.

Recently, a Gala Day took place at Countdown Bethlehem featuring numerous stalls selling things from baking to toys and books.

The Bayfair Countdown also took part in the Gala and people had the chance to have their photos taken with a Corvette car as the backdrop.

For a gold coin donation people were also able to sponsor a filled Christmas stocking which will be donated to children in Tauranga Hospital's Children's Ward.

Staff at Countdown Bethlehem have also offered their services to produce items for raffles.

Bay of Plenty District Health Board CEO Phil Cammish says the Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal allows hospitals to obtain those extra little luxuries and pieces of clinical equipment they could not ordinarily afford.

'These not only help children during their hospital stay, for example providing distractions through play equipment, but also in some cases make their stay shorter through the use of advanced technologies,” he says.

'We look forward to supporting Countdown each year with their fantastic efforts in mobilising not only their own staff, but their community, in helping us help children.”

Everyone can participate by making a donation or engaging in local activities and raffles.

To donate, simply visit your local Countdown supermarket and donate at the checkout, purchase a Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal wristband or raffle ticket, or visit: www.countdown.co.nz to donate online.