Question 1

What is the Star Gala: The Surrealist Garden?

Accepted Answer

The Star Gala is an exclusive charity event to benefit Starship Children’s Hospital. The theme for the 2026 gala is  ‘The Surrealist Garden’. It will be an ultra- premium evening featuring a bespoke venue design, a four course, chef designed menu, curated complimentary beverages, a live and silent auction and specially commissioned entertainments.

Question 2

When and where is the Star Gala being held?

Accepted Answer

The Star Gala: The Surrealist Garden will be held at the Auckland Town Hall, 301/317 Queen Street, Auckland on Saturday May 9, 2026.

Question 3

What is the ambition of the Star Gala?

Accepted Answer

The Star Gala is part of a visionary campaign to raise over $6 million by January 2027 to transform cancer care for New Zealand’s children. Funds raised will support Starship’s Oncology Project, advancing clinical care, pioneering new treatments, and creating a better experience for every child and family.

By taking part in the Star Gala, purchasing tickets, or donating, you’re helping bring world-class, less-invasive cancer treatments to Starship, ensuring that no child is left behind.

Question 4

Who can attend?

Accepted Answer

Attendance at the Star Gala is by invitation only, bringing together a community of visionary supporters dedicated to transforming children’s cancer care in New Zealand. If you share this passion and would like to be part of this extraordinary evening, please contact gala@starshipfoundation.org.nz for further information or fill in your details in this form.

Question 5

What is included in a table purchase?

Accepted Answer

One table of 10 seats
Four Course Dinner
Complimentary premium beverages
Bespoke Entertainment
Live Auction
Silent Auction
A night like no other in New Zealand

Question 6

Can I get a refund if I need to cancel?

Accepted Answer

We are unable to process refunds after 1 February 2026. From 1 February if you can no longer attend, you may transfer your tickets to someone else. You will need to provide name and contact details of the guests you are transferring your tickets to.

Question 7

What is the Dress Code?

Accepted Answer

Evening attire, dress to impress!

Question 8

Do you accommodate dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can accommodate most dietary requirements. Those will be collected from you and your guests prior to the event. Specifically, we are able to cater for the following: Vegan, Vegetarian, halal, kosher and all allergies.

Please note: We cannot cater for specific lifestyle diets or individual preferences.

Question 9

Who is behind the Star Gala?

Accepted Answer

The Star Gala is produced by janda Productions on behalf of the Starship Foundation.

Question 10

Is any donation I make at the event Tax Deductible?

Accepted Answer

As Starship Foundation is a charitable organisation any donation or pledge greater than $5 qualifies for a charitable giving tax credit.

Please note that in line with Inland Revenue Department guidelines, we are unable to issue donation receipts for purchases of auction items, raffle tickets or similar where there is a material benefit associated with payment.

Question 11

Will I receive a donation receipt for the purchase of tickets to the event?

Accepted Answer

No, unfortunately, we are unable to issue donation receipts for ticket sales.  Inland Revenue Department guidelines preclude the issuing of donation receipts where there is a material benefit associated with payment.

Question 12

How will the funds raised be spent?

Accepted Answer

Funds raised from the Star Gala will support Starship’s Oncology Project, transforming paediatric cancer care in NZ. You can find out more about this project here.

Question 13

Can I sponsor or donate in other ways?

Accepted Answer

Of course! If you are interested in supporting the event in any way, please email gala@starshipfoundation.org.nz to discuss options.

Question 14

If I can’t attend, can I still support?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can! If you are interested in supporting the Oncology project, please email us at gala@starshipfoundation.org.nz and one of our Philanthropy Managers will be in touch to discuss this opportunity with you.

Question 15

Terms & Conditions

Accepted Answer

These Terms and Conditions apply to the sale and use of tickets for the Star Gala: The Surrealist Garden ("the Event"), organised by the Starship Foundation (“the Event Organiser”). By purchasing or using a ticket, you agree to be bound by these T&Cs.  You can view these here.

FAQs