By Joseph Erceg
Photos: Croatian Cultural Society of NZ Inc.
On Saturday 10 May, the Croatian Cultural Society NZ clubrooms were packed with over 200 quizzers for the ever-popular Kralj Tomislav Folklore Ensemble Quiz Night. This time it was fundraising for the ensemble’s upcoming July Kia Ora Croatia 2025 folklore tour.
The event was another outstanding success with intense quizzing competition and lively auctions. Among the guests was special attendee and MMA fighter Brando Peričić. The event was hosted by quiz master Tiana Miocevich, who kept the momentum going. Twenty teams battled through eight rounds of trivia. The Kralj Tomislav Crew brought extra energy with the crowd favourite quick-fire prize wheel. Over 44 silent auction items saw spirited bidding throughout the night.
A highlight was the live auction, featuring generous donations from Brando and his City Kickboxing teammates. Items included signed gloves from UFC champions Israel Adesanya and Kai Kara France, as well as memorabilia from Brando himself. Brando also joined in the fun, helping spin the prize wheel for lucky winners. Another standout item was a framed Max Mata jersey, signed by the current Auckland FC squad.
A Community United: Over $19,000 Raised for Croatia Tour
Thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees, donors, and sponsors, the night raised over $19,000 for the Kralj Tomislav group. These funds will directly support the group’s travel and performance costs. They are preparing to represent New Zealand’s Croatian community abroad.
One of the organiser Anna-Marie Arnerich added, “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed. Their support helps lighten the enormous task of organising the tour.”
This year’s tour holds special significance. It marks the 1100th anniversary of the first Croatian Kingdom and the coronation of King Tomislav, after whom the Kralj Tomislav Ensemble is named. The tour will include performances in key cultural and historical locations around Croatia over two weeks. These performances include Bjelovar, Zagreb, Šibenik, Biograd, Split, Zagvozd, and Tomislavgrad.