6th of April, 2023
If you’re a friend of Aviva’s, no doubt you already know that we just celebrated a very special birthday. This year marks 50 years since we were founded, not as Aviva, but as Christchurch Women’s Refuge. To mark this milestone, reflect on our evolution and celebrate the thousands of lives saved or changed for the better, we held a night of performances, kai and storytelling at Te Pae Convention Centre.
Attended by over 300 people, including staff past and present, clients, supporters, dignitaries and some of our founding members, it was a night to remember. MC’d by the lovely and warm Hilary Muir of The Breeze, highlights of the evening included a journey through the ages (1973-now) by Playspace Productions, performances from local musician Elly Rydge and St. Bedes Polyfest Ggroup and a moving keynote speech from a former client.
It is not often that we have an opportunity to come together and recognise the incredible contribution that thousands of people have made towards an Aotearoa free from violence. To be able to do so and share the celebration with those on the journey with us was an absolute privilege.
We would like to take a moment now to say a huge THANK YOU to our 50th Sponsors and event sponsors, without whom none of this would have been possible.
Event sponsors:
· Te Pae Convention Centre
· The Breeze
· Play Space Productions
· Heather Joy Photography
· Elly Ridge
· Blueprint
50th year sponsors:
· Christchurch Casino (Champion Sponsor)
· BDO Christchurch
· Kathryn Dalziel - Barrister
· Mod's Hair
Media sponsors:
· Mediaworks
· Go Media
· Phantom Billstickers
· VAST
· Lumo Digital
· JC Decaux
Auction donors:
· Air New Zealand
· NZ Rugby
· Artworks Picture Framing
· Christchurch Attractions
· Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
· Dark Sky Project
· Absolution Tattoo
· He Puna Taimoana
· Launch Pad Trampoline Park
· Orana Wildlife Park
· Willowbank Wildlife Park
· Kate Christie Photography
· Big Save Furniture
· Macpac
· Bunnings Warehouse
· SiloStay
· Bombo
· Industria
· IHF Health Club
· Flow Yoga Studio
· Alice Cinemas
· The Court Theatre
· The Central Art Gallery