Michael Hill is donating $50,000 to Auckland City Mission’s flood response in New Zealand, following a barrage of rainfall around Auckland and Northland in January this year.
The jewellery retailer was founded in the New Zealand town on Whangarei, where Michael Hill and his wife Christine opened their first store in 1979.
Michael Hill CEO Daniel Bracken confirmed the $50,000 donation was generated from the past weekend's sales.
“Across the years we’ve celebrated many milestones with our customers, however we recognise that being there through the challenging times is just as integral,” Bracken said.
“The flood devastation in Auckland, Northland and the Coromandel has placed many Kiwis in an incredibly tough situation and we applaud the amazing work of groups like Auckland City Mission.
“We hope this donation will help the organisation provide much-needed assistance in the flood recovery efforts.”
According to industry body Retail NZ, the recovery of flood-affected regions in Auckland will be mixed as businesses report a drop in revenue and traffic.
“Retailers across Auckland have been impacted by the recent flooding in different ways,” Retail NZ CEO Harford said. “Many have experienced flooding or leaks, or have had staff directly impacted.
“This has meant a clean-up of stores, supporting staff with leave or changes in shifts, and liaison with insurance and trades."
Despite the challenges, Harford said retailers have been redirecting efforts to local communities.
“Many retailers have been stepping up to support impacted communities by supplying food to food banks, undertaking workplace fundraisers or ensuring they are open to supply essential goods.”