PlaceMakers raises $8,000 for children through charity

More than 160 badminton players helped raise $8,000 in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) New Zealand by taking part in the 2025 PlaceMakers Charity Friendship Cup Badminton Tournament, held on 15 November in Auckland 

The event brought together 24 teams made up of PlaceMakers staff, suppliers, and customers. Organised around a social-competitive format, the tournament combined friendly play with fundraising efforts to support families with children undergoing serious medical treatment. 

Opening remarks were delivered by PlaceMakers Head of Sales & Service Shane Cornelius and Auckland Hub Manager Jonathan Percy, who thanked participants and sponsors for their contribution to both the event and its charitable purpose. 

Friendship first 

Matches were held throughout the day at Badminton North Harbour, with fast-paced rallies and close contests unfolding across multiple courts. While competition was fierce at times, the event retained a clear focus on community spirit and connection – a point underscored by the tournament’s “friendship first, competition second” theme. 

Sponsors for the 2025 tournament included ClayMark, Milwaukee, Laminex, and the New Zealand Chinese Building Industry Association. PlaceMakers acknowledged their support, along with the efforts of Badminton North Harbour in hosting the event. 

The tournament couldn’t have happened without the hard work and dedication of PlaceMakers Sales Assistant Issac Jian and client Peter Xiao of AM Homes. Jian, who helped coordinate the tournament, said the most memorable aspect was the atmosphere of mutual support. 

“Over 160 badminton enthusiasts from PlaceMakers, along with our customers, suppliers, and community partners, competed with professionalism while consistently showing respect, support, and good humour,” Jian said. 

Spontaneous mixed teams, impressive rallies, and moments of camaraderie between staff and customers added to the occasion. According to Jian, it was these interactions that elevated the event beyond sport. 

“These genuine interactions elevated the tournament beyond a sporting contest, creating meaningful connections and capturing the true and most valuable essence of this Charity Friendship Cup,” he said. 

“I was deeply moved and immensely proud. Seeing our colleagues, who usually spend their days moving between sites, warehouses, and offices, step onto the court in sportswear and smiles; seeing our long-time customers and suppliers attend the competition and volunteer to set up the venue and hand out water and snacks was amazing. When I saw that, I truly felt that PlaceMakers is more than a building materials supplier. It is a community built on community connection.” 

Supporting the community 

Funds raised through the event will go to RMHC New Zealand, which provides accommodation and support for families who must travel for their child’s medical treatment. Jian said the cause resonates strongly with staff and customers alike. 

“RMHC’s work touches the most delicate unit of society, which is family. We believe that supporting RMHC is supporting hope. This commitment is also strongly endorsed by our employees and customers – because charity is not about giving from above, but about empathy and walking alongside those in need.” 

Much needed behind-the-scenes help 

Behind the scenes, Auckland Sales Manager Jimmy Pan helped bring the organising team together, including securing sponsorship and coordinating with the venue. Peter Xiao designed the match schedule and tested the scoring system, helping to ensure the event ran to time. A group of volunteers arrived at 6am to assist with set-up – a contribution Jian said was crucial to the tournament’s success. 

Looking ahead, plans are already forming for future tournaments. 

“My hope is to establish the Charity Badminton Friendship Cup as PlaceMakers’ signature annual community event,” Jian said.