Our very own CEO Matt Woodley once again has taken a week away from his desk to embark on a meaningful journey across New Zealand, all in the name of helping children in need.
Taking the Scenic Route for Kids Can: The Pork Pie Charity Run
Matt has hit the road in his Mini as part of the iconic Pork Pie Charity Run, joining dozens of other Mini enthusiasts circumnavigating New Zealand to raise awareness and funds for KidsCan, an organisation dedicated to providing New Zealand children living in hardship with the essentials they need to participate in learning.
The Pork Pie Charity Run, inspired by the classic Kiwi film "Goodbye Pork Pie," brings together Mini owners from across the country in a colourful convoy that captures attention and opens hearts wherever it goes.
"The decision to take time off to support KidsCan was an easy one," Matt explains. "When you see the direct impact this organisation has on children's lives—providing food, clothing, and health items—you realise how essential their work is for our communities."
The Journey
Matt's route, along with the dozens of other Minis participating in the charity run, takes him through some of New Zealand's most scenic landscapes, from coastal highways to mountain passes. Along the way, the convoy stopped in various towns and cities, engaging with local communities and spreading the word about KidsCan's mission.
The colourful parade of Minis, all sporting KidsCan branding, became quite the spectacle wherever they went. "People would approach us at gas stations or when we were parked, curious about the cars and the cause," Matt says. "Those moments became opportunities to share the KidsCan story and encourage people to contribute."
A Team Effort: Donovan Group and Coresteel Family on the Road
While Matt was behind the wheel, he wasn't the only one from our extended family participating in this worthy cause. Trina and Gary White from Coresteel Buildings Waikato also joined the Pork Pie Charity Run, demonstrating the deep commitment to community service that runs throughout our network. Matt and his travel companion Nathan Bonney from Iridium Partners and The Whites have raised a significant amount of money for KidsCan, adding substantially to the overall fundraising total.
The Donovan Group team rallied behind these efforts. Colleagues helped with logistics, social media updates, and their own donations to the cause.
"The support from the Donovan Group and Coresteel Buildings teams has been incredible," Matt notes. "It speaks volumes about the culture we've built here—one that values giving back to the community that supports us."
Making a Difference
This year's Mini adventure has already surpassed 2023’s fundraising total of $417,000, with donations continuing to come in as we look to reach the target of $500,000 overall. Every dollar raised goes directly to helping KidsCan provide essentials for children in need.
The impact is tangible: these funds help provide food, raincoats, shoes, and health items to children who would otherwise go without. By addressing these basic needs, KidsCan helps remove barriers to education and gives children the opportunity to focus on learning rather than hunger or discomfort.
Building Communities Beyond Buildings
At Donovan Group, our commitment extends beyond creating innovative building solutions. We believe in building stronger communities and supporting initiatives that make a positive difference in people's lives.
Matt's Mini adventure exemplifies this commitment. "What drives me is knowing that these efforts directly help children in our communities," Matt says. "Every kilometre driven and every conversation had is worth it when you know you're contributing to such an important cause."
How You Can Help
Inspired by Matt's journey? You can still contribute to his KidsCan fundraising https://porkpiecharityrun.org.nz/t/the-bonodleys or learn more about KidsCan's initiatives at kidscan.org.nz.
Together, we can ensure that every child in New Zealand has access to the essentials they need to thrive.