An initiative to raise funds for local search and rescue (SAR) has resulted in a donation of $4,000 from Wānaka beer brewers.

The inaugural Wānaka Craft Beer Advent Calendar, a collaboration by local craft breweries, was launched for Christmas 2022 with all profits benefiting Wānaka SAR.

“It seemed like the perfect way to promote the amazing brewing scene in the town, while raising money for a great cause and we would like to thank everyone who supported the initiative,” Adam Sharman, one of the men behind the initiative, said.

Search and Rescue’s Phillip Melchior said the SAR group is staffed by volunteers and relies wholly on grants and donations.

“Wānaka Search and Rescue is very grateful for the generous $4,000 donation from the Wānaka Beer Advent Calendar,” he said.

“Wānaka SAR is perhaps the busiest back-country SAR group in the country and this summer is turning out to be no exception.”

Adam said that planning is already underway for the 2023 advent calendar and details will be released later in the year.

The craft beer advent calendar contained a mixed case of 24 craft beers from local brewers Wānaka Beerworks, Ground Up, Rhyme x Reason and b.effect, providing a beer a day in December in the countdown to Christmas.

PHOTO: Supplied