A small but perfectly formed group of hospitality legends have once again rallied to support those experiencing food insecurity, with 61 restaurants across Aotearoa signing on to participate in the 2025 annual DineAid Christmas campaign which raises money for the City Missions in the lead-up to Christmas.
Now in its 13th year, starting on 1 November, and running through to 31 December, DineAid works to connect those who can enjoy a meal out, with those experiencing food insecurity and seeking help at food banks and community kitchens.
Participating restaurants give diners the option to donate by either adding $3 to their bill or by adding $1-3 to a popular dish or cocktail, with all funds raised going to the City Mission closest to their city or region.
100% of funds donated goes to City Mission
Thanks to sponsorship from Precinct Properties, one hundred percent of the funds donated by diners goes via DineAid to City Mission food banks in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch who in turn distribute food to more than 135 locations throughout Aotearoa.
Last year’s 2024 Christmas campaign raised $73,667.27, more than $13,000 up from 2023, with the top 10 fundraisers based in Auckland and Wellington as follows and in order of amount raised. Hello Beasty (Auckland) $5551.13; Queen’s Rooftop & Wineshop (Auckland) $4620.52; Beau Ponsonby (Auckland) $3574.80; Gemmayze Street (Auckland) $3137.00; Ombra (Wellington) $3108.00; kingi (Auckland) $2670.00; Pici (Auckland) $2646.00; Odettes (Auckland) $2336.00; Kisa (Wellington) $2302.00 and Ooh-fa (Auckland) $2237.00.
Since its inception in 2012, the DineAid New Zealand Charitable Trust has raised $1,232,787.73 and hopes to be able to raise another $80,000 by the end of December.
DineAid supporter Precinct Properties
DineAid founder Mark Gregory says he and the team are enormously grateful to those who continue to support DineAid.
“We are heartened by the continued support of restaurants across the country, both long-time supporters and new participants, getting involved and helping with such grace and compassion.
“A special thank you also to Precinct Properties for their generous donation covering administration and printing costs.
“Each year, with the help of these restaurants, through the Mission, we’re able to reach local communities in need. This year is no different. With the ongoing cost of living crisis, demand on food banks is higher than ever with food hubs reporting around 25% of the population facing food insecurity.
“Every single dollar donated during the annual DineAid appeal will help struggling individuals and families across Aotearoa.”
Participating restaurants going the extra mile to support
Helen Robinson, Auckland City Missioner – Manutaki is grateful to have the ongoing support of DineAid and the restaurants who go the extra mile for those in need.
“Each year, DineAid connects the generosity of diners and restaurants with the people and families who are struggling most in our community. At a time when the Mission is continuing to see high demand for food support, this campaign truly makes a difference.
“My heartfelt thanks go to the DineAid team, each diner who chooses to give, and the participating restaurants. Your kindness directly helps those experiencing hardship and reminds us all of the strength of compassion and community.”
The DineAid annual Christmas Campaign runs from November 1 to December 31, 2025. For a full list of this year’s participating venues, visit dineaid.org.nz.