Marineland group raise funds for challenge

The Friends of Marineland group have kept their fight to get Marineland re-opened alive after raising the last of their targeted $12,000 on Sunday.

It was smiles all round at the conclusion of the group's Party in The Paddock gala at Meeanee after it was realised the $2000 target set for the day had been reached.

The group had previously raised $10,000 through a series of fundraising ventures.

At a court hearing three months ago it was ruled the group had to raise $12,000 as a security payment against costs in its battle with the Napier City Council to have the former Marine Parade attraction re-opened as a marine wildlife sanctuary/hospital and education centre.

Friends of Marineland spokeswoman Emily Otto said some supporters had arrived from as far as Rotorua and Palmerston North to attend the gala.

"We'd like to thank all those who came along for making this a special day and also a big thank you to all our generous sponsors who helped us make this a wonderful and successful event."

She said the group would continue its battle.