VARIETY - THE CHILDREN'S CHARITY: Variety is fundraising for children affected by the Christchurch earthquake. 100% of funds from this auction item will go to the children in need. (Trade Me has kindly waived all fees).

Early indications show that there will be many children who have lost parents, many children whose homes and schools are damaged. Their loss is immense. Variety has begun working with the local community in Christchurch to determine the short term and long term needs for these children. This may include replacing mobility and medical equipment for children with special needs, providing support for schools impacted by the quake, or helping children to cope with loss.

Please show your support by bidding generously on this item, checking out our other listings, and forwarding this on to friends and family.
To donate directly to our earthquake appeal, please visit http://www.varietynz.org.nz/christchurchearthquake Thank you for your kind support at this time of great need.

THIS AUCTION: A Personalised Poem by renowned Writer & Poet Bill Manhire CNZM

A money-cant-buy opportunity from New Zealand's inaugural Poet Laureate. This is a rare chance to have a poem written for yourself, a unique occasion or perhaps a special person in your life, by acclaimed poet Bill Manhire. Manhire has been a significant figure in promoting New Zealand poetry and literature - not only through his internationally acclaimed creative writing course at Victoria University but also through his work as a critic, anthologist, and broadcaster, and in his appearances at writing festivals around the world. Manhire has won numerous awards both internationally and here in New Zealand. In 2007 Manhire was honoured with the Prime Minister's Award for Literary Achievement. His works have been published in the acclaimed The New Yorker and The Times Literary Supplement.

Thanks to Bill Manhire for his willingness to provide this special opportunity.