Key Takeaways
- New Zealanders donated $31.6 million via the Givealittle platform in the 2025 financial year
- 42% of donations, totaling $13.2 million, went to health-related causes
- The most-supported page on Givealittle was for Wānaka woman Emma Holden, who raised over $417,000 for cancer treatment
- Kiwis also gave generously to community-focused causes, such as the Wairoa mayoral relief fund, which raised over $282,000
- The average donation amount was $86, with the most common donation being $50
Introduction to Generosity in New Zealand
The report on New Zealand’s generosity highlights the country’s willingness to give to various causes, with a total of $31.6 million donated via the Givealittle platform in the 2025 financial year. The stories and statistics shared in the report demonstrate the "nationwide giving to nearly every conceivable cause" and showcase the generosity of New Zealanders. The report’s findings are a reminder that when people call for help, they will be heard, and that the generosity of New Zealanders is unflagging.
Health-Related Causes
The report shows that Kiwis have a soft spot for giving to health-related causes, with 42% of donations, totaling $13.2 million, going to such fundraisers. One notable example is the story of Wānaka woman Emma Holden, who received $417,000 in donations to help her cover costs for cutting-edge cancer treatment. Her page was the most-supported on Givealittle, and the amount raised in a short space of time demonstrates "how quickly New Zealanders rally when a life is on the line." This outpouring of support is a testament to the kindness and generosity of the New Zealand community.
Community-Focused Causes
In addition to health-related causes, Kiwis also gave generously to community-focused causes. The Wairoa mayoral relief fund, started after the town was hit by severe flooding in June 2024, raised over $282,000 across 2152 donations. This campaign demonstrates how generosity responds not just to individuals, but to entire communities in crisis. The support provided immediate relief for food, shelter, and essential supplies, and the Wairoa community was overwhelmed with the support and kindness they received. Other community-focused causes, such as the Papakōwhai School’s annual Readathon and the "Power the Brigade" campaign, also received significant support.
Regional Giving
The report also highlights regional giving trends, with Auckland being the region with the most donations, totaling $14.2 million. The average donation amount varied by region, with Gisborne having the highest average donation amount of $108, followed by Northland. The national donation average was $86, with the most common donation amount being $50. These statistics demonstrate that generosity is a nationwide phenomenon, with people from all regions contributing to various causes.
The Impact of Generosity
The report emphasizes that generosity is not just about numbers, but about connection and community. Board chairwoman Charlottle Lockhart notes that generosity is "a hand offered when someone stumbles, a neighbour dropping off a meal, a community choosing to stand alongside one of its own." Living with a terminal cancer diagnosis herself, Lockhart understands the impact of support and the difference it can make in people’s lives. The report’s findings are a reminder that generosity is a powerful force that can bring people together and make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the report on New Zealand’s generosity highlights the country’s willingness to give to various causes, with a total of $31.6 million donated via the Givealittle platform in the 2025 financial year. The report’s findings demonstrate the kindness and generosity of the New Zealand community, with a focus on health-related and community-focused causes. The impact of generosity is not just about numbers, but about connection and community, and the report’s statistics are a reminder that generosity can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need. As Lockhart notes, "these are not just statistics – they are lifelines."