Wanaka St John on target

After nearly 12 months of fundraising, Wanaka St John has reached its $180,000 target for a new four-wheel-drive ambulance.

Wanaka Area St John chairman Phill Hunt made the announcement during a prizegiving ceremony for the three-day Hire Quip charity golf tournament which raised $20,000 towards the new vehicle.

Held at the weekend, the tournament attracted 188 players who competed in 47 teams with funds raised through raffles and auctions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Hunt said fundraising for the new ambulance began last May with a target date of May 2010.

"Most people outside our area thought we were being too ambitious. While I acknowledge the support of regional trusts I must mention that 45 per cent of the target amount has come from sources within our Wanaka community," Mr Hunt told the 200 people at the ceremony.

The new vehicle would replace the existing ambulance which had high mileage. It would service the area bounded by Gates of Haast, Queensberry, the Lindis Pass and the top of the Crown Range.

Tournament co-ordinator Bill Hore said there had been lots of laughter and fun at the weekend. Since 2004 the tournament had raised over $100,000 for local charities Mr Hore said.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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