Pub quizzes for good causes
To bring in the patrons on quiet nights, Reddin’s in Raumati Village has taken the traditional pub quiz to the next level — turning the regular pub quiz into a charity quiz.
Taking the idea from a friend many years ago when he lived and worked in the UK, Reddin’s owner and quizmaster Barnaby (Barney) Reddin decided he may as well use the quizzes to raise money for a good cause.
“It doesn’t matter what that good cause is, so long as it’s a good cause,” Barney said.
“Charity quiz nights is just something I have always done since coming to New Zealand.
“It’s a unique idea as the charities don’t have to pay us anything to do them.
“Pubs, restaurants and bars generally have quiz nights as a way of attracting people on quiet nights. That’s why we have them.
“But I thought that’s all well and good, but my attitude to that has always been we can always give something back as well.
Running every Tuesday night from February through to November, each month a different charity is chosen.
“Groups can run raffles throughout the night too, with big raffles running throughout the month.
“It’s about valuable causes. Raising around $7000 last year, on average $700 a night, Reddin’s is starting up again for the year, with the first one on next Tuesday.
Charity quiz nights is just something I have always done since coming to New Zealand. Barney Reddin
“Each charity gets a month, all they’ve got to do is show up with a small group of people. I provide the quizzes, I compare them, I’ve got regulars who always rock up and they all give a koha for entry.
“It’s just a fun thing to do, and my regulars have bought into it too.”
Charities last year included Mary Potter Hospice, Waikanae Air Scouts, Cancer Society, Huha, Parkinson’s NZ and a number of others all with local connections.
“I’ve written out about 35,000 questions over the years.
“Some are general which can be repeated, but some are topical. “It’s just a bit of fun really.” First up in February money will be going towards firefighters in Australia.
“The month will be dedicated to raising money for the Australian Red Cross in aid of their efforts to help those most impacted by this season’s terrible fires across the country.”
Reddin’s is calling on those who have a cause they are fighting for, or who need a helping hand fundraising to get in touch. Quizzes are on Tuesday nights from 7pm at Reddin’s, Raumati Village.