Thrifty Highlander auction aims to keep NZ’s lifeguards moving

The auction of a brand new vehicle valued at over $80,000 will begin tomorrow in a bid to keep New Zealand's surf lifeguards moving. 

As one of Surf Life Saving New Zealand's valued partners, Thrifty Car Rental will list a brand new Toyota Highlander Limited ZR which has a recommended retail price of $80,990 on Trade Me.

The premium 5 star ANCAP safety rated all-wheel drive vehicle comes in the winner's colour of choice and features a nine inch LCD entertainment screen, reversing monitor, satellite navigation, Bluetooth, sunroof, leather interiors and six speed automatic transmission. 

Surf Life Saving New Zealand's Principal Partner State Insurance is also offering one year's free car insurance to the winner of the auction and BP is providing a fuel gift card valued at $250.

Once the auction reserve has been met, all profits from the auction sale will be donated directly to Surf Life Saving New Zealand.

Thrifty Car Rental NZ General Manager Emma Gardiner says the business is thrilled to be supporting 'our heroes of the beach'.

"Surf Life Saving New Zealand is an iconic organisation that provides a vital service to people and communities all over New Zealand. 

"Not only will this auction help a wonderful cause, but it's our chance to proactively give back to the communities and customers we serve in a really meaningful way," she says.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand CEO Paul Dalton says he is grateful to Thrifty for undertaking this auction. The organisation is dependent on its sponsors and partners like Thrifty, along with the general public, to keep its lifeguards trained and on patrol. 

"This season, around 4,000 volunteer lifeguards will give up their summer to help keep families safe at New Zealand's beaches. Now it's your chance to help support them," he says.

The vehicle auction will begin at 9.30am tomorrow (August 15) and closes on Wednesday August 27 at 8pm at http://trade.me/Thrifty.

For more information please contact: 

Lisa Honeybone, Media & Communications Specialist, SLSNZ
Phone 09 303 9335 or 0276 488 823
Email lisa.honeybone@surflifesaving.org.nz