Exactly one month remains until registrations close for Cancer Society Nelson Tasman’s biennial Relay For Life.
The event brings the community together in solidarity with locals whose lives have been affected by cancer, offering a space to connect, reflect and show support.
Teams of any number walk, run, skip or dance for 16 hours around the Richmond A&P Showgrounds track, symbolising that people affected by cancer are not alone.
Relay For Life celebrates cancer survivors and their carers, while also remembering those who have been have lost.
Every dollar raised supports Cancer Society Nelson Tasman’s local cancer support services and health promotion initiatives.
Cancer Society Nelson Tasman general manager Venus Guy says the organisation is building on the strong results of the 2024 event, where 49 teams and 545 participants raised more than $205,000.
“The key feedback was the community spirit, the feeling of collaboration and unity, and while it was sad for people to think about those who have passed away, at the same time, it was a moment of strength,” she says.
“Every Relay For Life, our goal grows -we want more teams involved and to raise more funds so we can meet the increasing need for our services.”
More than 30 teams have already registered, and Venus encourages the public to sign up online or at one of the local Cancer Society offices before registrations close on 28 February.
“In the past 12 months, we supported more than 600 locals and their families, organised a cancer health expo for the local former refugee community, ran multiple support groups and well-being workshops for clients and families, visitor volunteer programme, gym rehab and exercise programmes,” she says.
“The demand continues to grow, and because we receive no government funding, fundraising events like Relay For Life are essential.”
Waimea Weekly editor Sara Hollyman challenges others to get on board to support the event.
“More than half of my team, including myself, have lost someone to cancer over the past year, and some of us have family who are still fighting. The support of the cancer society is so valuable. This event is something we want to get behind.”
Relay For Life runs from 4pm on Saturday 14 March until 8am on Sunday 15 March.
It begins with a celebration afternoon tea from 2pm for people with personal experience of cancer and those remembering loved ones. An opening lap led by cancer survivors and carers at 4pm officially starts the relay.
“It’s important to acknowledge those who have been directly affected by cancer, while also recognising the support networks around them,” Venus says.
“Honouring the ones who have passed, but also to reflect the resilience of those who are going through that tough journey and their supporters.”
As night falls, the Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony takes place, with candle bags lining the track in dedication to people affected by cancer, offering a time for quiet reflection and remembrance.
Throughout the event, participants can enjoy live entertainment, children’s entertainment, a wide selection of food vendors, outdoor movies, silent disco and a free massage for those participating.
Visit nelsontasman.relayforlife.org.nz to register your team before 28 February. The cost is $20 per person.
