Tauranga's Voodoo Lounge is hosting a fundraiser in honour of its founder Ross Te Paa tonight, who passed away after a medical emergency on May 21, 2023.

Ross, who managed the bar since its opening in 2018, suffered a clot in the brain and subsequent brain bleed on the evening of February 28, 2022.

After exceeding expectations in making a recovery Ross took part in his own Mount Maunganui challenge in March this year, and climbed Mauao 27 times with the goal of raising $1,000 for the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand.

Sadly, Ross unexpectedly passed away after a seizure in May. However, his fiancé, Jackie McCaughan, is continuing his wish of fundraising for the stroke foundation by continuing to update his fundraising page with her climbs up Mauao.

"When Ross first had his stroke he couldn't walk at all. The fact he was able to walk up the mount even once was amazing. We've been carrying on the challenge in his honour. I still go up regularly with my sister-in-law, and it is quite emotional thinking about how he did it by himself."

Jackie and Ross, centre, with their boys Tristan and Jackson. Photo: Supplied.

In under three months, a GiveALittle has also raised over $11,546 in supporting Ross' partner with funeral and living costs.

Tonight, The Voodoo Lounge will be having a special event where $1 from every drink purchased will go towards his fundraiser for the Stroke Foundation of New Zealand.

"If people want to donate directly they can also visit the fundraiser page."

Thursday is The Voodoo Lounge's cocktail and burger night, where they sell two for one cocktails and $12 burgers, according to Jackie.

People who wish to attend can do so after the bar opens at 315 Maunganui Road after the bar opens at 4pm.