KiwiHarvest ‘Souperheroes’ campaign - a big thanks and upcoming fundraiser
In a world where it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the news, it’s often the small acts of kindness and community spirit that remind us of the good in the world. Right now, more than ever, those of us who are fortunate enough to be part of this community can take pride in knowing that individuals of all ages have come together to literally nourish and warm the bellies of those who are struggling.
I wanted to take a moment to share with you how, through the KiwiHarvest ‘Souperheroes’ campaign, our community has made a real difference. What began as a simple idea - aligned with KiwiHarvest’s mission to reduce food waste and support those in need - has grown into something that fills me with pride and hope.
We started by collaborating with Liger students, whose enthusiasm and commitment to learning have been invaluable in bringing this campaign to life. The task was clear: reduce waste, work with local students and hospitality, and feed those facing tough times. So, it developed to source surplus containers like ice cream tubs, yogurt tubs, and banana boxes - items that would otherwise end up in the landfill - and team up with local chefs at hotels and restaurants to utilise excess food and create a stockpile of frozen soups, stews, and curries. These would be distributed to the 13 charities we support, reaching communities in Queenstown, Wānaka, Cromwell, and Alexandra.
Liger Students project becoming reality
Our local primary schools embraced the campaign wholeheartedly. Students from Queenstown, Wānaka, and beyond scoured their recycling bins for old containers and dug into their cupboards for canned soups. The dedication of these young Souperheroes was evident, with Shotover Primary School leading the charge, collecting hundreds of containers and over 450 cans in just one non-uniform day.
Mini souperheros in action at Shotover Primary School
Behind the scenes, chefs from local hospitality businesses worked tirelessly to transform excess food ingredients into hearty winter staples. KiwiHarvest, as always, just played its part by efficiently coordinating collection and distribution, ensuring that these meals reached those who needed them most by giving it to our amazing recipient charities working in the frontline like Happiness House, Salvation Army, Baskets of Blessings etc.
Samson and Kayleigh from Queenstown Catering using their souperpowers to create amazing Winter staples
The frontline team at Baskets of Blessings over the moon to receive these contributions weekly to cope with record numbers
The impact has been felt across the region, and today, we received an exciting message from the team at the Dansey Pass Hotel, eager to get involved. This is a reminder that when good people come together, great things happen. The ripple effect of this campaign is just beginning, and we’re excited to see how we can continue to build on this incredible start.
Our trolley at Pak’nSave is still there for donations of containers and canned soups, and local hospitality businesses are welcome to reach out to join in. We’ve still got plenty of containers to fill, and every contribution counts.
Steph our volunteer collecting the donations from our Pak N Save trolley from all those unnamed souperheroes contributing from the community
To all the Souperheroes in our community - students, families, teachers, chefs, and volunteers - thank you for making this winter warmer for so many.
Special thanks to the following:
Schools and students:
- Shotover Primary School
- Arrowtown Primary School
- Wānaka Primary School
- Queenstown Primary School
- Remarkables Primary School
- Kings View Primary School
- St Joseph’s Primary School
- Te Kura Whakatipu o Kawarau
Chefs and teams:
- Queenstown Catering
- Double Thyme Catering
- Crowne Plaza Hotel
- Real Journeys Walter Peak Team
- Odd Saint Café
- Rees Hotel
- Pavilion Restaurant
- Hilton Hotel
And to every individual and family who have dropped off containers and made a donation to our trolley at Pak’nSave.
And to those who prefer to remain nameless, but whose contributions are no less appreciated - thank you!
Your generosity and dedication are changing lives. Together, we are proving that community spirit is the best recipe for success.
Our next fundraiser is our Cruise for a Cause: Doubtful Sound on 9-10 August. Set sail on an unforgettable overnight Doubtful Sound adventure - and make a real difference for our community!
We’re thrilled that KiwiHarvest Queenstown and Central Lakes has been chosen by RealNZ for their exclusive Cruise for a Cause.
All ticket proceeds go directly to KiwiHarvest!
Your experience includes:
- A cruise across Lake Manapouri and coach journey over Wilmot Pass
- A spectacular overnight cruise through Doubtful Sound
- A three-course dinner and hearty breakfast
- Opportunities for kayaking or small boat exploration
- Free return bus from Queenstown
- Inspiring after-dinner talks with Nadia Lim (Royalburn) and Greg Hay (Wet Jacket Wines)
- Live piano entertainment by RealNZ
- Silent auction with amazing prizes
Tickets: $750 per person (twin/double cabins)
Limited spots available – secure your place on this once-in-a-lifetime voyage! Click here for more info.
