\u201cOne of our treasured drivers, Ben, was in a life-changing, devastating accident this week while delivering to our valued customers,\u201d a note on the page said.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe has already received numerous surgeries and will continue to have many more throughout his recovery process.<\/p>\n
\u201cEveryone knows that Ben is an extremely popular team member, is always bubbly, throwing jokes around and full of mischief. Therefore, we want to do everything we can to help him.\u201d<\/p>\n
A photo of Ben waving and smiling accompanies the fundraising page, which was set up this afternoon.<\/p>\n
Shortly after 6pm, just over $4000 had been raised. Many of those donations are from businesses around Auckland \u2013 from bakeries to tech companies and learning centres \u2013 which Ben delivers stock to.<\/p>\n
\u201cGutted to hear what happened. You are our fave ever driver and we miss you already,\u201d one person wrote.<\/p>\n
\u201cBen, I\u2019m keeping you in my thoughts and sending you strength for your recovery. Please use this support towards your healing and comfort. Wishing you courage and better days ahead,\u201d another said.<\/p>\n
The Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter was called to the scene and landed at a primary school across the road. Photo \/ Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust<\/p>\n
The Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter and Hato Hone St John were called to the scene of the crash on Central Boulevard in Silverdale that day.<\/p>\n
The helicopter landed at a nearby primary school.<\/p>\n
Local businesses have taken to social media to share their support for Ben, who is said to be well-known and respected in the area.<\/p>\n
Staff at Manly Bakery in Whangapar\u0101oa shared a special notice with its customers, calling on them to show their support.<\/p>\n
\u201cMany of you will know Ben, our local delivery driver from Gilmours. He\u2019s the guy who always knows how to brighten our day \u2013 full of laughs, good chats and just the best energy whenever he comes by.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver the years, he\u2019s become more than just our driver. He\u2019s become part of our lives. I know every business around the Coast will agree how special he really is.\u201d<\/p>\n
Another business, Coast Cakes, described the young man as friendly, bubbly and helpful and was already up for a chat.<\/p>\n
They also praised members of the public who were first on the scene.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo the amazing people [who] helped him on Wednesday morning from the gym, thank you. Your help and support most likely saved his life while you waited for emergency response.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Police Serious Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash and WorkSafe has also been advised.<\/p>\n