Turangi attack family give back to NZ

Published: 5:10PM Friday February 03, 2012 Source: ONE News

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  • Turangi attack family give back to NZ  (Source: ONE News)
    Police inspect the family's caravan at Club Habitat Holiday Park in Turangi - Source: ONE News

The family of the 5-year-old girl sexually assaulted in Turangi have donated $20,000 to organisations who helped them after the attack.

The girl, her 3-year-old brother and parents are now home in Europe.

The $20,000 will go towards purchasing playground equipment in Turangi, Victim Support in Hamilton and ECPAT Child Alert, an organisation which aims to end the sexual exploitation of children in New Zealand.

The Waikato Health Trust will also receive funds for paediatric surgical instruments.

New Zealanders donated more than $62,000 to the family after the December 22 attack.

The family was also given hundreds of gifts, which were distributed among other sick children at Waikato Hospital.

"We were amazed at New Zealanders' generosity," the family said in a statement released by the Waikato District Health Board today.

"We in no way blame the Turangi community for what happened and so we wanted to give something tangible back.

"We understand they are fundraising for a new children's playground and so we want $5000 spent on a piece of equipment that young people in Turangi can enjoy."

The parents say it is difficult to assess how the incident will impact on their daughter's life.

They said the balance of the money left from Operation Turangi will be devoted to her well-being and future.

"One day we want to return to New Zealand with our family - we want our son and daughter to see what a beautiful country this is and realise how much love, care and attention your country gave us."

The parents thanked a number of groups involved in helping their daughter after the attack.

"We must make mention of the people at Waikato Hospital," they said.

"What they've got is very special and it is something we have not seen in Europe."

The girl's 16-year-old attacker pleaded guilty to charges related to the attack and will be sentenced in the Rotorua District Court on February 23.

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