A lunch of significance was held at the Auckland Hilton to raise fund for the NZ Antarctic Heritage Trust during an official visit to New Zealand of the then President of Ireland, Mary McAleese.
Around 400 guests attended including Lady June Hillary, New Zealand ministers and the Australian Irish Ambassador.
Guests on the premium tables were treated to a framed $5 note, signed by Sir Ed Hillary.
A donation of $100,000 was presented to the Trust on behalf of the Irish Government. The $30,000 proceeds from the event was also presented to the Trust.
“This event was regarded as one of the highlights of the visit by the Presidential party and the organisation by Crackerjack was superlative.” Rodney Walshe, former Honorary Consul General of Ireland and Director of The Walshe Group.
