Borland Lodge may not have survived the financial impact of the global pandemic without the "unwavering support" of the wider Southland community, said Borland Lodge Adventure and Education Trust chairman Grant Hubber.

“Donations and bookings from far and wide, from individuals, schools, businesses, families, community funders and clubs during the pandemic demonstrate the community’s steadfast support of Borland”, he said.

When COVID-19 hit, the trust put out an urgent plea for donations to secure its future, having realised that with all of its cancelled bookings through April and May, the trust would be out of pocket by $50,000.

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Shortly afterwards, the donations from around the community began flooding in, and are continuing today.

"We've raised well over the $50,000 and some," said Mr Hubber.

He said bookings are also up and are now back at what they were pre-COVID-19, with bookings also being made for 2021.

Mr Hubber said while the ongoing global impact of COVID-19 remains unknown, the funds donated have provided certainty for the Lodge in the short term. 

Borland Lodge aerial view. PHOTO: Cam Waru

The Trust is now inviting the wider Southland community to come along for its Annual General Meeting this Sunday (October 11), so it can give its personal thanks to the community and provide an update on its progress and goals for the future.

“Southland needs to know how much this generosity has meant to us," said Mr Hubber.

Mr Hubber said the trust remains optimistic but cautious, and the focus now is to ensure the money is spent wisely, to ensure Borland Lodge remains open and operational for Southlanders and those from further abroad to enjoy for many years to come.

The Borland Lodge AGM is this Sunday, October 11 at 1:30 pm at Borland Lodge. 

About Borland Lodge Adventure and Education Trust

Borland Lodge Adventure and Education Trust is a local non-profit organisation that began life as the Pig Creek Hostel, providing accommodation for Manapouri power project workers in 1969.

On completion of the project, the buildings were left behind to become a valuable base for school, youth, family and community groups for years to come.

Borland Lodge is just off the Southern Scenic Route between Lake Manapouri and Lake Monowai, south of Te Anau. Adventure activities include bivvy making, eeling, burma trail, caving, night drop, fire pit and team building.