August 2026
There has been plenty happening at Cholmondeley over the past few weeks, with our tamariki making the most of everything from snow and the beach to circus performances, gymnastics and movie nights.
Talent shows have been a regular feature, while a trip to Victoria Park gave the kids the chance to play in some leftover snow. We have also been exploring the beach at Birdlings Flat, enjoying hot chocolates on the wharf, and heading to the School of Gymnastics for sessions this term.
Thanks to the generosity of our community, our tamariki have enjoyed some special outings too. We were gifted tickets to The Great Kiwi Circus for a Saturday night out, and groups have also headed along to the Illuminate festival.
Christ’s College once again hosted a special movie night for our tamariki, while Boys' Week and Girls' Weekend gave everyone plenty to look forward to at the Centre.
We have also welcomed art therapy students, who are now spending Saturday mornings at Cholmondeley working with our tamariki in small groups. They will be with us through until the end of the year, and we look forward to sharing more about this new initiative in the months ahead.
Girls' Weekend also included something a little different, with a special photoshoot at a local studio using the incredible set design created for Little Gems.
Kind regards,
The Cholmondeley Team
PwC and Cholmondeley - More than a Partnership
There is something pretty special about a partnership that grows into a genuine connection, one built over many years, shared experiences and a deep commitment to making a difference for children and families in our community. Our relationship with PwC is very much that kind of partnership, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have their support.
The PwC team has been part of the Cholmondeley story for many years, and their support has taken so many different forms. From generous financial support and creating their own fundraising initiatives, to hosting guests at our events, joining us on the golf course, celebrating with us at Little Gems and sailing in our annual regatta on Whakaraupō Harbour, they are always ready to get involved and get behind Cholmondeley.
Their team has taken on 24-hour running and biking challenges, run reading programmes with our children and spent countless hours with our tamariki through a whole range of initiatives. Every December, PwC generously caters a wonderful Christmas-themed dinner, creating a very special experience.
The PwC Foundation also plays an important role in the partnership. Alongside payroll giving by PwC people, the Foundation provides additional support by adding to funds raised through initiatives such as Fit For A Cause, as well as making its own annual contribution to Cholmondeley. Together, these different forms of support help extend the impact of the fundraising and involvement of the PwC team, allowing the generosity and enthusiasm of PwC people to go even further for our tamariki and whānau.
What makes this relationship particularly special is the enthusiasm and genuine care the PwC team brings with them. They don't simply support Cholmondeley, they get involved, roll up their sleeves and become part of what we do. We also love following the incredible work PwC does across the wider community. Their commitment to giving back shows that being a successful business and being a great community partner can go hand in hand.
We are incredibly grateful for the many ways PwC continues to stand alongside Cholmondeley, and especially for the wonderful people who have built such a meaningful connection with our children and our team over the years.
A big thank you to Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust
We're incredibly grateful to the Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust for their generous ongoing support of Cholmondeley, helping ensure that every child who comes through our doors has access to nourishing, wholesome meals.
At Cholmondeley, mealtimes are about so much more than food. They are a time to come together, share stories, build friendships, and create a sense of belonging. Around the dinner table, children relax, laugh, and connect, often with peers they've only just met. These everyday moments play an important role in helping children feel safe, supported, and at home.
The generous support of the Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust helps ease the cost of providing nutritious meals, allowing more of the funds we raise to be directed towards the care and wellbeing of the children and families we support.
Partnerships like this make a lasting difference, and we're so thankful to have the Foodstuffs South Island Community Trust alongside us as we continue to provide children with a place to feel safe, cared for, and valued.
Libby Ornsby (Cholmondeley Children's Centre Chief Operating Officer), Nigel Paterson (South Island District of English Freemasons District Grand Charity Steward), Joy Reid (One Mother to Another Chief Executive & Co-Founder).
A Great Night for Two Great Causes
On Saturday night, Cholmondeley Board Trustees Claire Sparks and Rebecca Cresswell, along with Chief Operating Officer Libby Ornsby, attended the South Island District of English Freemasons Charity Dinner.
The Freemasons were great hosts, with plenty of laughs throughout the evening, while also recognising the important reason everyone had come together: to raise funds for two Canterbury charities, Cholmondeley and From One Mother to Another.
Guests were also given a tour of the lodge rooms and learned a little about the history of the Freemasons before sitting down to a delicious three-course dinner, catered by Mark McCracken from Comber Cuisine.
There was plenty of good food and good company, along with some generous donations for the silent auction. A few of the items proved particularly popular, with some hotly contested bidding!
A huge thank you to Nigel Paterson, District Grand Charity Steward, and the South Island District of English Freemasons for organising the evening and for their ongoing support of Cholmondeley.
Upcoming Events
A Little Gems Photoshoot with Charlie Rose Creative
As part of Girls Week last week, our girls had a special photoshoot with Charlie Rose, who created a custom set especially for our Little Gems Cocktail Party.
A big thank you to Charlie for creating such a fun experience. The girls had a great time getting dressed up and stepping in front of the camera to have their portraits taken.
We look forward to showing off Charlie's set design to those attending Little Gems next Saturday.
Cholmondeley’s Centenary Sailing Regatta
Need some wind in your sails? Gather your crew and join us on Friday the 16th of October 2026 for the annual Cholmondeley Sailing Regatta, a fun-filled day on the water in support of local tamariki and whānau.
Held on the stunning Lyttelton Harbour, the Regatta brings together corporate teams, friends and supporters for a unique experience featuring sailing, networking, hospitality and friendly competition, all while raising vital funds for Cholmondeley Children's Centre.
No sailing experience? No problem. Experienced skippers and crew will guide you throughout the day, making it the perfect opportunity to host clients, reward staff or simply enjoy an unforgettable day on the harbour for a great cause.
Keen to enter a team or find out more? Email sarah@cholmondeley.org.nz