Queenstowners invited to 'zip' and help raise funds for local charity

Multi-award winning Queenstown tourism company Ziptrek Ecotours will mark its fourth birthday next month by inviting locals to ‘zip’ for charity.

Keen locals are encouraged to grab friends and family and take to the trees above Queenstown for Ziptrek Ecotours’ annual Locals’ Day on Saturday November 2 2013.

Wakatipu locals can enjoy the Kea 6-line or Moa 4-line tour for a special Locals’ Day price of $40 per person and this year $10 from each zip will be donated to Queenstown Lakes Family Centre.

Last year, thanks to the support of the local community, $2,350 was raised for Queenstown’s Kiwi Birdlife Park and global social charity Kiva.org, a ‘micro loan’ organisation that helps empower people out of poverty.

Ziptrek Ecotours Sales & Marketing Manager Nicky Busst said the locals’ day was a “real favourite” with the team as it “allows us to not only give back but also opens up the experience to locals, who may not otherwise get the opportunity to experience our tours”.

“The funds raised will give the family centre a much needed financial boost and allow them to carry on the great work they do in our community”, said Mrs Busst.

“Spaces are already filling fast so we encourage locals to get in quick.”

The Queenstown Lakes Family Centre is a local charitable organisation that exists to strengthen relationships between children, young people and their families, offering free, specialist counselling and support services to children aged between 0 and 17 years and their families/whanau in the Wakatipu.

Queenstown Lakes Family Centre general manager Ilona Weekley said the not-for-profit organisation was “extremely grateful” to be named the ‘charity of choice’ for this year’s event.

“We really appreciate being chosen to receive the donations from this year’s locals’ day. It’s a huge honour,” said Ms Weekley.

Bookings are essential and can be made by calling 0800 ZIPTREK /03 441 2102 or by emailing us at nzinfo@ziptrek.com.  Open to all Southern Lakes residents.

A proof of residence is required on check-in and the price excludes the Gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak.