An auction of well-known NZ wines is live now through online auction platform The Wine Auction Room (wineauctionroom.com) with all funds going to #helpforhospo, an initiative created to distribute privately donated funds to hospitality workers in need.

Blair Duncan, of Red+White Cellar, was moved to act after hearing stories from within the industry of people needing assistance - particularly those trying to support dependents. Blair’s initial donation of $10,000 has been matched by others and #helpforhospo created as a means to distribute those funds.

The fund continues to grow as donations are received - more than 300 hospitality workers in need have received direct support by way of minimum $100 payment.

Beyond generous financial donations, stock has been donated by NZ wineries keen to support. The Wine Auction Room has been selected to auction these donations through a one off fundraising auction event. Labels include Amisfield, Aurum, Burn Cottage, Felton Road, Gibbston Valley, Greystone, Helio, High Garden, Lawson’s Dry Hills, Luna Estate, Maude Wines, Mt Difficulty, Muddy Water, Planet, Redmetal Estate, Spy Valley, Te Awanga and Valli.

Says Reece Warren of The Wine Auction Room “This collection is small and packs a mighty punch – a perfect platform for you to bid generously and help those in need. Help us all cook up a little support for our friends”

Says Blair “There is no doubt the hospitality industry faces a challenging road ahead. As businesses navigate the way forward, help for hospo is designed to support workers directly, providing a little immediate support to those who have had their income affected. We are touched by the generosity of those wishing to support others within the ‘hospo fam’ and pleased to be able to provide a means to do so. We hope it helps.”

The auction closes Sunday 17th of October at 7pm, place your bid now at www.wineauctionroom.com Helpforhospo will continue so long as funds are available.