Charities we support
The Festival has always been run as a fundraiser. To date, Avonhead Rotary has raised over $250,000 through the event for charities across Canterbury.
Child Cancer Foundation
The Child Cancer Foundation provides strength and comfort to families, parents and children impacted by child cancer. They are the Festival’s Principal Charity for 2027.
Where the money goes
Every dollar raised stays in Canterbury, supporting these organisations and the people they care for.
Canterbury Charity Hospital
“By the community, for the community" The Canterbury Charity Hospital provides FREE surgical, medical and dental services to people in Canterbury and the West Coast who cannot access public care and cannot afford private treatment.
Visit Canterbury Charity Hospital →
Cholmondeley Children’s Home
Cholmondeley Children’s Centre provides short term emergency or planned respite care for whānau with children aged 5-12 which can be accessed in times of whānau stress or crisis.
Visit Cholmondeley Children’s Home →
Christchurch Youth Hub
A first of its kind in Aotearoa, Youth Hub Christchurch brings together safe and supported housing for young people at risk of homelessness, with wraparound health, education and social services, alongside welcoming spaces where all young people can belong, connect and have fun in the central city. Cholmondely
Visit Christchurch Youth Hub →
Hohepa Canterbury
Hōhepa Canterbury is a vibrant community of people with intellectual disabilities. We develop and deliver quality, innovative services that encourage people to live fully engaged lives.
Visit Hohepa Canterbury →The Festival is made possible by the businesses who back it — every dollar they help raise goes to the charities above.