The Christmas “Light the World Giving Machines” initiative continues to inspire generosity and compassion around New Zealand.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints welcomed local charities and community organizations, on 22 January, 2025 to celebrate the initiative’s impact.
Giving Machine Wrap-up in New Zealand 2025
Elder Taniela B. Wakolo of the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (third from left), and representatives of Auckland charities, watch Derek Good, Chair of the Auckland Giving Machine Committee, give a demonstration of a digital giving machine in Takapuna, Auckland, on Wednesday 22 January 2025© 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.Giving Machines in Christchurch, Wellington, Hamilton and Auckland during the 2024 Christmas season gave New Zealanders opportunities to help individuals and families in need by donating medicine, food, and other essential items.
The event celebrated not only the donations raised but the spirit of service that unified community organizations, local leaders, and donors.
Digital Giving Machine New Zealand
New Zealand Digital Giving Machine© 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.Elder Taniela B. Wakolo, a member of the Pacific Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all who supported the giving machines initiative.
“Thank you for all that you do, but most importantly, thank you for who you are.”
Elder Taniela B Wakolo at Giving Machine Wrap up
Elder Taniela B. Wakolo at New Zealand Giving Machine Ceremony. © 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.The initiative brought together a diverse community of partners, including Auckland City Mission, BBM Motivation, Child Cancer Foundation, Kura Cares Charity, Feed the Need, Salvation Army, and UNICEF Aotearoa. This united effort demonstrated the power of community in addressing pressing needs.
The Giving Machines exemplify the Light the World initiative’s mission to emulate the Saviour’s love by serving others. As Dave Letele of BBM Motivation emphasized, “It’s a team effort. If you can help, you should.”
Elder Taniela B. Wakolo explained the spiritual foundation of the Giving Machines. He quoted a Māori proverb that translates in English to, “The most important thing in the world are the people, the people, the people.”
He added, “That’s why we do Giving Machines—because of the light of Christ in all of us.”
Click here for link to video of event.