Jarden Extends a Helping Hand to Hawke’s Bay Surf Lifeguards

Christmas has arrived early for the Hawke’s Bay Search and Rescue (SAR) Surf Life Saving squad, thanks to a generous donation by Jarden.

The investment and advisory company donated a brand-new inflatable rescue boat (IRB) and trailer following a presentation to its Hawke’s Bay office by Hawke’s Bay SAR Coordinator, Jess Bennett.

Anna Kay, Jarden Associate Wealth Management Adviser, said, “We invited Jess to come in and speak to us about the incredible work the squad carried out during and following Cyclone Gabrielle.  We were all deeply moved as she provided us with an in-depth understanding of the squad and its vital contribution to our community.”

When Cyclone Gabrielle struck Hawke’s Bay earlier this year, surf lifeguards responded swiftly after a state of emergency was declared.  They worked alongside Fire and Emergency New Zealand, conducting rescues, and providing valuable assistance to those in need.

Jess Bennett shared, “It was an incredibly challenging time for our teams, but at Surf Life Saving, we all operate from a place of compassion and drive to protect and help our communities.  We were all committed to doing our best in those circumstances, and despite the enormity of it all, it was a privilege to be able to help.”

Jarden staff across New Zealand and Australia raised funds for charitable organisations in areas impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, with the company matching those funds raised.  Jarden’s Hawke’s Bay team then chose the Hawke’s Bay SAR squad as one of the local recipients.

Kay said, “Jarden is proud to support the extraordinary efforts of our local Hawke’s Bay surf lifesaving teams.  We appreciate their unwavering commitment to saving and safeguarding countless lives, as well as their steadfast year-round dedication to ensuring the safety of our community.”

Bennett said, “We are incredibly humbled to receive this IRB and trailer from Jarden.  Some of our equipment can get damaged when we respond to events like Cyclone Gabrielle, so having support like this is truly amazing.”

With patrol season underway in Hawke’s Bay the new IRB, featuring Jarden’s logo on each side of the hull at the front, will be seen along Hawke’s Bay coastlines as surf lifeguards continue their mission to ensure every beachgoer returns home safely to friends and whānau.

Official Presentation of IRB:

When: Thursday, 23 November at midday

Where:  Splash Planet 1001 Grove Road, Parkvale, Hastings

Who:  Jarden Hawke’s Bay team & Hawke’s Bay SAR Squad members