A fundraising golf day in Tauranga has smashed fundraising records, delivering $65,000 for the Findex Community Fund and its chosen charities.

Held on a pristine course and buoyed by strong camaraderie and competition, the event drew widespread support for causes including UOKBRO, the Ōmanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club and Good Neighbour.

Organisers say the day not only showcased spirited play and standout hospitality, but also highlighted the power of partnership in driving meaningful community impact.

“A great time was had by all on a spectacular course, and even though the bar is set pretty high by each successive Findex Golf Day, I’m really pleased to share that we’ve shattered records on funds raised, bringing in a whopping $65,000 for the Findex Community Fund and chosen charities,” Tauranga-based Findex Senior Partner Michelle Malcolm said.

Highlights from the event included some passionate play for the Hole-in-One prize sponsored by Findura, with no less than a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado VX Hybrid, valued at $95,490, up for grabs.

Much to everyone’s disappointment, the big prize of the day went unclaimed, but certainly not for lack of trying, organisers said.

“We’re proud to support the Findex Community Fund because it backs local organisations making a real difference in their communities,” Tax Management New Zealand chief commercial officer Matt Rama said.

“It was brilliant to see so many people get behind these charities; it’s a great example of what strong partnerships achieve.”

Fund recipients respond

Ōmanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club patrols more than 6km of coastline each year from October through to April, carried out entirely by volunteer lifeguards who dedicate their time to keeping local beaches safe.

General manager Scott Bartlett said funds raised through the event help support volunteers by contributing to essential rescue equipment and additional training.

“This investment ensures our patrol members are well prepared and equipped, ultimately providing greater safety for our community at the beach each summer. Thank you for your support.”

Flushed with enthusiasm, UOKBRO founder and social worker Scotty Harvey said the golf was great, but the results were even better.

“What an incredible day on the course! I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who came along, played, donated and supported the golf day. Your generosity and presence mean the world, and the funds go directly toward keeping the UOKBRO Bus on the road.”

Brent, Blair, Andrew and Mitch line up their birdie putt. The event drew widespread support for causes including UOKBRO, Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club and Good Neighbour. Photo / Supplied

The UOKBRO Bus provides free, accessible mobile social work support across communities.

“Every dollar helps us sit in more places, reach more people, and continue offering early intervention and preventative wellbeing support. Our message is simple. If a seat is free, it’s yours, for your whānau, or your employees. Because sometimes all someone needs is a safe place to sit, talk and be heard.”

Good Neighbour, which provides practical community support, echoed UOKBRO, with general manager Renee Hanna appreciating the golf on the one hand, and the funds raised on the other.

“Good Neighbour is expanding to meet the growing needs of our community, and the funds will go towards the renovation of our new building.”

She said the new facility increases Good Neighbour’s ability to assist vulnerable young people into employment while offering greater wrap-around care for the whānau it supports through practical projects.