Gareth's Guest Launches

The Wellington Phoenix will launch “Gareth’s Guest” at the Phoenix’s next home game against Melbourne Heart on January 29.

In an initiative that is designed to benefit both Wellington Phoenix supporters and UNICEF NZ, a global organisation dedicated to saving and protecting children, Wellington Phoenix owner Gareth Morgan will put up a cash prize at each of the remaining four home games in season 2011/12.

At half time one lucky seat number will be drawn. If there is a fan sitting in that seat at the time then they will have the choice of ether winning $1000 cash or taking $800 themselves and donating $500 to UNICEF NZ. The winner will also get an invite to be ‘Gareth’s Guest’ in the Chairman’s Lounge for the next home game.

If the seat is not occupied then the cash will jackpot through to the next home game.

Morgan says that the initiative is a way to bring two of his passions together.

“I have been a UNICEF NZ Ambassador for many years now and am very passionate about the difference they make in the lives of children all over the world. The Phoenix is a new passion of mine and this idea is a way for me to bring these two great organisations together,” he said.

“The Wellington Phoenix have a strong charity programme already and this just adds to what the Phoenix is adding back into the community.”

Dennis McKinlay, UNICEF NZ Executive Director, says that the partnership is a novel and exciting way to profile what UNICEF do.
“Every moment of every day, UNICEF is on the ground providing life-saving help for children in need. We are known for the work we do in the developing world in providing children with their basics rights in life such as clean water, sanitation and healthcare. But we are also very active in New Zealand bringing children's issues to the attention of politicians and the public, lobbying for improvements to child rights laws, and advocating for change,” McKinlay said

“This generous joint partnership with Gareth Morgan and his association with the Phoenix can only help our programmes”.

Gareth’s Guest starts half time at the Wellington Phoenix v Melbourne Heart game, Sunday January 29, kick off 4.30pm.