Several standout lots saw the 2024 Hawke's Bay Wine Auction raise nearly $350,000 in support of Cranford Hospice over the weekend.

Over 300 wine enthusiasts gathered at Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre on Saturday to celebrate the local wine industry and raised $335,697 over the night.

Bidding was fierce from the start, taking only seven lots to raise the first $50,000 under the guidance of Harcourts Hawke’s Bay auctioneer, Chris Kennedy.

A privately donated 37-bottle vertical collection of Te Mata Estate Coleraine spanning four decades was purchased by local business Isaac’s Plumbing and Electrical for $18,000.

In an incredible act of generosity, Isaac’s director Gavin Streeter immediately donated the lot back to be re-auctioned, and it was purchased a second time for $16,500.

“It was an amazing moment,” said Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction General Manager, Sam Kershaw. “The crowd was blown away, and I think it inspired the room to continue their generous bidding right to the very last lot.”

The highest-selling wine lot, aside from the Coleraine, was a half barrique of 2024 Kakara Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah blend, donated by Paritua Wines, which went for $15,000.

Peter Cowley, Chairman of the Hawke's Bay Wine Auction, thanked winemakers and sponsors for their continued support, acknowledging the vital role they play in making the event possible. "A fundraising total like this reflects the quality of the wine that was donated. Every year, our local winemakers put forward their very best, including many wines blended uniquely for the auction.”

Cranford Hospice, which provides palliative care services to the Hawke's Bay community, relies heavily on donations, and the annual Wine Auction remains its largest private annual donor. Every cent raised goes directly to support the hospice.