Wellington City Mission’s bold fundraiser starts with a leap

WELLINGTON, Today: Imagine asking a national hero to kick off a daring fundraising campaign by abseiling down a Wellington high-rise. That’s exactly what Wellington City Mission did with Wellington’s Greatest Deed.

Yesterday, Sir Ashley Bloomfield, former Director-General of Health, made the thrilling descent down a high-rise to sign the first names of donors on the symbolic seven-meter long Wellington’s Greatest Deed document.

The initiative celebrates everyday Kiwis who donate to Whakamaru by adding their names to a living billboard, which will be updated weekly and eventually placed inside the new facility.

“I feel incredibly grateful to have been part of the City Mission’s activation, Wellington’s Greatest Deed. I may not love heights, but I’m happy to live with a bit of fear for such a great cause,” says Sir Ashley Bloomfield.

“I feel incredibly grateful to have been part of the City Mission’s activation, Wellington’s Greatest Deed. I may not love heights, but I’m happy to live with a bit of fear for such a great cause.” – Sir Ashley Bloomfield

“Whakamaru is a significant milestone in The Mission’s history. As demand for our services grow, we need to rethink how we ‘do community.’ Whakamaru will reshape how Wellingtonians support and care for each other.

“We’re incredibly grateful to have partners like Special Wellington, who demonstrate big, creative thinking can influence action and inspire donations,” added Murray Edridge, Wellington City Missioner.

Mark Forgan, ECD at Special, mentioned, “We know from campaigns like The Silent Night, when there’s a creative idea connected to something tangible, we can help drive donations. That’s our ambition for Wellington’s Greatest Deed.”

Matt Barnes, Lead Business Partner, added, “We want everyone to feel like they own Whakamaru, and now they can… Bold, and brave ideas like this spark curiosity and generosity.”

Wellington’s Greatest Deed is about uniting the community to make a lasting impact. By donating, New Zealanders contribute to Whakamaru, a facility providing 24/7 support for those in need.

CREDITS

Clients: Wellington City Mission
Creative Agency: Special Wellington
Media: OMD
Billboard space: Lowe & Co
Videography: Howie
Abseiler: Dynamic Heights Solutions Ltd
Talent: Sir Ashley Bloomfield