On Friday 28^th October 2022, 460 guests turned out to celebrate Cure Kids 50^th anniversary gala dinner at the Pullman Hotel, Auckland, raising $193,000 net for New Zealand’s largest charitable funder of child health research.

Adding to the excitement of the evening, a one-of-a-kind pearl necklace designed by Dame Trelise Cooper fetched $20,000 in the live auction.

Hand-designed by Dame Trelise with pearls donated by New Zealand Pearl, the bespoke necklace was one of the most anticipated auction items at the gala dinner.

Cure Kids Chief Executive Frances Benge says the renowned designer is a long-time supporter of the charity, and having her exclusive piece as an auction drawcard topped off a suite of packages on offer from generous partners, ranging from Lady Raewyn and Sir Graeme Henry, to David Babich and Rugby great Stephen Donald.

“Dame Trelise has a long history with Cure Kids, dating back to her t-shirt design collaboration with one of our longest-standing ambassadors, Eva, who is a proud advocate for child health research.

“With the generous contribution of New Zealand Pearl, she created a showstopper one-of-a-kind necklace featuring hand-picked pearls, custom-made charms and gold details – inspired by her love for the pearls she wore on her own wedding day.”

Guests were also treated to entertainment by Jackie Clarke and The LadyKillers and heard a moving speech from ambassador parent Catherine Harper.

The golden jubilee was generously supported by Bayleys Foundation, La Roche Posay, Accor, Babich Wines New Zealand, New Zealand Pearl, One Pure Artesian Water, Laken Whitecliffe Art, Asahi Beverages, Colab Brewing, Garage Project, ImaGINation Gin, Parrot Dog, Vida Flores. Along with numerous auction sponsors.

All proceeds from the gala dinner go directly to supporting Cure Kids’ research into child health to improve, extend, and save the lives of Kiwi children living with serious health conditions.