Merlin’s dealers band together to provide flood assistance

New Zealand is known for her wild beauty. Rolling mountains, picturesque fjords and spectacular glaciers, the country’s landscape can be recognised as the backdrop for some of the most epic movies of our time.

However, with the stunning scenery, New Zealand can also be known for wild weather. Between storms and heatwaves, we’re often kept on our toes, not sure if we need an umbrella or a sunhat.

Unfortunately, this winter, some of us were more badly impacted by our country’s unpredictable weather, with Nelson Bay and the surrounding areas suffering a catastrophic weather event in August.

The intense rains caused severe flooding, cutting off some areas and leaving people isolated from their homes and loved ones.

Over 160 families had to evacuate, abandoning most of their belongings.

In response to this devastating event, the entire Nelson Bay community pulled together, including Nelson Garage Doors and Merlin’s dealer network.

Dealer conference turned touching fundraiser

In August this year, Merlin hosted its annual New Zealand Dealer conference in Queenstown.

Due to the flooding, key dealer, Nelson Garage Doors, was unable to join. Though their office wasn’t damaged, the team was on the ground, running inventory and securing stock so they could quickly respond to requests for repairs.

To provide support to their dealer, and the people of Nelson Bay, Merlin saw the opportunity to use the conference to make a difference, raising much-needed funds for the region.

The Merlin network raised over $20,000 in a single day, through generous donations from head office as well as 20 dealers – including $2000 from Nelson Garage Doors. This money was distributed to seven important charities:

1. Nelson, Richmond and Stoke Fire Brigades – Consisting mainly of volunteers, these teams were first on the ground. They braved nasty conditions through the night, helping those who needed immediate emergency assistance.
2. Nelson Mayoral Relief Fund – The local Council was heavily involved in financial assistance and distributed money directly to the families that needed it.
3. The Big Bake up – The Bake Up team took it upon themselves to feed the community, cooking for those who’d lost everything.
4. Nelson Red Cross – Another group that was made largely of volunteers, the Red Cross made massive contributions across many of the disaster areas, by providing shelter and clothing.
5. Fifeshire Foundation – This charitable trust looked after the families and children in need in this crisis, providing monetary grants to those who needed them.
6. Te Kotahi o Te Tauihu Charitable Trust – With a mission to look after the people of the Te Tauihu (the top of the South Island), and the Maori communities in particular, the charitable trust provided shelter to those displaced and by the weather event.
7. Helping Hands Project – This project partnered with the local Mitre 10 Mega, distributing a donated trailer full of tools for people to work with, and help rebuild during the disaster.

Although the rebuild may take years, contributions like these are vital for providing immediate support, and reigniting hope within the community.

Merlin dealers

 

Merlin is committed to both the safety of its products and society − this donation is just one small example of Merlin’s charitable efforts.

 

Consistently investing in projects like Habitat for Humanity, as well as local organisations − such as sports teams and small businesses − Merlin is always looking for new ways to improve the well-being of the community.

 

We take care to partner with dealers who hold the same values we do, and who are equally dedicated to supporting the areas in which they operate.

 

To find your closest Merlin dealer, enquire on our website.

For more information about Merlin’s range of garage door openers and accessories, visit our website or call 0800 653 667.

*Merlin dealers who contributed to the donation include:

• WindsorDoors Southland
• Hibiscus Garage Doors
• Auckland Garage Door Repairmen
• Metro Garage Doors
• Custom Made Garage Doors
• Pete Attwoood Garage Doors
• Automatic Garage Doors
• Elite Garage Doors
• Securadoor
• Automatic Door Services
• Dunedin Garage Doors
• Knight Garage Doors
• Apex Garage Doors
• Future Garage Doors Kerikeri
• Hutt Valley Garage Doors
• Fred Chapman Garage Doors
• Barry Davis Garage Doors
• Le Doors
• Garage Door Shoppe
• Nelson Garage Doors