Tauranga Women's Refuge is getting an early Christmas present thanks to the generosity of the Tauranga community.

Keys to a brand new Mitsubishi L300 LWB worth $41,950 have been handed over to the organisation at a presentation at Bay City Mitsubishi today.

Kelly Cotter, Andy Roche, Gary Cookson, Aaron Chatfield, Denise McLeod and Angela Warren-Clark with Brian Wright QSM (Lions). Photo Bruce Barnard.

The Bethlehem Te Puna Lions Clubs raised the money for the van by applying for funds from NZCT, The Lions Foundation and the Lions's Banking Trust.

The van, which can carry up to six passengers, will be used to help women move into housing with their children.

Brian Wright, from Bethlehem Te Puna Lions, says the van will have a navigation system so they can safely find streets at night, and tinted windows to keep women and children safe.

'It has plenty of room to also carry furniture, bedding and clothing.”

Bay City Mitsubishi owner Aaron Chatfield is thrilled to be a part of today.

'I brought the business six months ago and I am excited to see this come to fruition.” Aaron says about 15 people have shown up for the presentation.

'Brian has done a wonderful job is organising everything and getting this van for the Women's Refuge. It's great to be part of something like this.”

On Saturday, Brian played Father Christmas for the Women's Refuge when the Lions hosted a barbecue for them.

'Crombie Lockwood provided presents for the mums and Seventh Day Adventist church provided gifts for the children.”

Brian says Brookfield New World provided soft drinks and confectionary, while Mr Whippy gave away ice creams and the Bethlehem/Te Puna Lions ran a barbecue.

Brian arrived in a police car with all the sirens going and gifts on board.

'The children were delighted.”