Heart Kids says it is not involved in the motorcycle fundraiser. Photo: 123RF
Heart Kids is warning it has no part in an event claiming to be fundraising for the charity and it has lodged a complaint with police.
Heart Kids NZ says organisers of a charity motorcycle ride scheduled for Saturday 28 March 2026 in Morrinsville are operating in its name but haven't responded to any of its requests for information.
Chief executive David Pimblott told Midday Report the same event was held earlier this year, and only gave the charity a small portion of the money after six months of pestering.
He said the charity is dependent on trust, and people should be confident that their donations are actually going towards Heart Kids.
"We were deeply concerned when this event was brought to our attention [on Monday] - especially hearing that supporters from our heart community are purchasing raffle and event tickets at a significant cost, expecting Heart Kids NZ to receive the funds," the charity said on Facebook, warning people of the event.
"Like many charities, Heart Kids NZ is working hard in a very tough funding environment, and we know how tight things are for families and communities right now.
"People give in good faith believing their support is going directly to charity, and we want to make sure that trust is respected."
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