Downer Donate has recently celebrated its first anniversary, and the New Zealand team is looking forward to continuing this wonderful community giving programme in the year ahead.

Downer Donate has given a total of $200,000 to 56 deserving causes, charities, and community groups across the country. Each cause or organisation is nominated by a Downer team member who wants to make a positive difference in their own community or support a cause close to their heart. 

With a 10,000 strong work force, this grassroots, people-led approach ensures the funds can reach a diverse range of recipients. Nominations are made by staff throughout the year, and recipients are selected each month by a panel. 

Downer Donate was launched in mid-2022, and its first year has been full of wonderful causes, poignant memories, and some severe weather patterns. Funds have been received everywhere from Whangarei in the north through to Balclutha in the south, and have included most major cities, as well as smaller communities list Te Anau, Marton, Putaruru and Tokoroa.

Donations were made to an impressive array of causes. A community pantry, youth outreach, environmental conservation groups, suicide prevention charities, bikes for kids, riding for the disabled, mental health support groups… and so many more.

Following the devastating floods in Auckland in late January 2023, soon followed by the wrath of Cyclone Gabrielle, the February and March portions of Downer Donate were used specifically to benefit causes supporting the welfare of people affected in Auckland, Hawke’s Bay, and the wider Gisborne area.

More than 250 entries were submitted over the year, and the Downer Donate team is excited to continue allocating monthly donations in the year to come, while raising awareness of all the incredible New Zealanders doing great things for their communities.