Delicious view from the top
Charitable New Zealanders enjoyed an evening of fine dining in various spots around Christchurch to raise money for Ronald McDonald House.
Guests enjoyed a threecourse meal at several venues, including the seventh floor of Press House in Gloucester St, at the annual fundraiser last night.
Ronald McDonald House South Island offers free accommodation to families with sick children who need hospital care.
Acclaimed New Zealand chefs, including Peter Thornley, Christchurch Casino’s Richard Hingston and Andrew Brown from The George, had at their disposal 30 kitchens around the city.
Venues included the School House at Christ’s College, the showroom window at McKenzie and Willis on Blenheim Rd, Hackthorne Gardens in Cashmere and She Chocolat.
A table of eight cost $1160 with all proceeds going to the charity.
The Press editor Andrew Holden and general manager Andrew Boyle donned tuxedos and provided their best waiting skills for the table of merry guests on the seventh floor.
‘‘I have tended a few bars in my time but I’ve never been a waiter in such salubrious surroundings,’’ Boyle said.
He said Ronald McDonald House did ‘‘incredibly meaningful work in the community’’.
‘‘It’s a great fundraiser and we’re delighted to be a part of it.’’
The charity’s corporate sponsor manager, Lizzie Dyer, said the Supper Club @ Home event provides guests with the ‘‘rare opportunity to dine inside some of Christchurch’s most beautiful homes and stunning venues’’.
Guests did not know where they were dining or who their chef would be until last night.
A pre-dinner auction saw items such as a hard hat and high-vis vest signed by Prime Minister John Key and weekend trips to Hanmer Springs attract thousands of dollars.
The main wing of the Ronald McDonald House suffered damage in the February 2011 earthquake and only reopened last month, meaning only 13 out of 26 rooms have been in use.
Last year Supper Club @ Home raised more than $34,000.
Pan-fried: