Every year at King’s Birthday Weekend, a dedicated group of volunteers transform the halls of Arena Manawatu into a book sale bonanza. The dedicated volunteers are matched only by the enthusiastic supporters who mark the date in their calendar every year, hoping to find the perfect bargain amongst the rows of books, games, jigsaws, DVDs and CDs.
Since its first edition more than 30 years ago, the event has evolved to become a true community affair. Steered by the passionate group of Palmerston North volunteers, bringing the book sale together unites the Red Cross branch with local community organisations, schools and businesses, working together to raise much-needed funds for those in need.
The first fundraiser, in the early 1990s, raised $1,000 for New Zealand Red Cross from a marquee in the back garden of a local Red Cross building. As the number of books has grown, so has the space needed to house them. It now encompasses three halls, coordinated and organised by a volunteer army from across the province.
Volunteers begin setting up a week before the event, relocating more than 4,000 boxes of books (each weighing roughly 15kg) for a combined total of close to 60 tonnes.
Supporters and helpers from Palmerston North Boys’ High School, Tai Wānanga Tū Toa, and New Kiwis Youth Group (made up of former refugees who have settled in the area) all contribute to getting the book sale set up.
Reinforcements come from students from two different language schools, many of them former refugees who help out as a way to give back to New Zealand Red Cross.
The community bands together to keep all volunteers fed throughout the four days, with local businesses such as Yoplait, Dominos and Chilli Box donating food.
All money raised goes towards New Zealand Red Cross. We are grateful to all the volunteers – and the supporters – who make the Palmerston North Red Cross Annual Book Sale the must-attend event that it is.