Come dine with me: celebrities host Long Lunch for Hospice

BIG-HEARTED celebrities are coming to the table to raise cash for New Zealand’s most under-funded specialist Hospice – with the countries top comedians, sport stars and chefs getting behind the cause.

South Auckland’s Totara Hospice is the lowest funded specialist Hospice per capita in New Zealand – covering 525,000 people – and it needs more money in order to continue to provide its services free of charge to families and support dying with dignity.

Now in its fourth year, the Long Lunch event on Sunday, October 16, is unique as each table has its own celebrity guest.

Nadia Lim (My Food Bag), comedians Jon Bridges, Jeremy Elwood and Josh Thompson and All Black Anthony Boric are all confirmed with high profile chefs Ben Barton and Sam Mannering in the kitchen and funny woman Michele A’Court on MC duties.

Totara Hospice receives just 60% of its funding from the government, which leaves a shortfall of $3 million each year – and this is just to meet operational costs.

Aside from raising much-needed funds, Hospice spokesperson Melinda Seal said the event is a great way to raise awareness about Hospice services while demystifying and exposing the public to the work it does.

“Everyone involved is volunteering their time – the youth, the chefs etc. – the youth involved don’t have the money to give but they have time to give and everyone involved is passionate about that and committed to the work of Hospice,” she said.

“The Long Lunch is a way for Totara Hospice to connect with the community in which we operate.

“We need to raise money, but we want to give people an experience they remember whilst raising money – an experience that connects them to the Hospice.”

Showcasing the flavours of Italy the luncheon will be held at The Bluestone Room, Durham Lane, Auckland Central, on Sunday, October 16, from 12.15pm - 5pm. Tickets, priced $155, are available online at: www.hospicelonglunch.co.nz

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