A flash mob has taken over Nelson Market, using dance and pop music to shine a spotlight on the funding challenges facing Nelson Tasman Hospice.
More than 25 dancers surprised Saturday shoppers when they erupted into song, performing a choreographed routine to Justin Timberlake’s Can’t Stop This Feeling!.
Hospice volunteer and flash mob spokesperson Marilynna Burton then addressed the crowd, sharing three key facts about the region’s hospice service.
“Hospice is not a place where you go to die,” she told the crowd. “Fifty per cent of people in our care have a non-cancer diagnosis, and hospice care is free. It costs us $4 million a year to operate.”
The final point highlighted the ongoing funding shortfall the hospice must make up each year through community support and fundraising.
Marilynna encouraged marketgoers to “give generously” as part of the Hands up for Hospice campaign.
The campaign will culminate with the Heave for Hospice event at the top of Trafalgar St at 4pm on Friday, 29 May.
Tasman District Council has challenged Nelson City Council to a rematch of the 2024 heave, claiming Nelson “cheated” by bringing in an extra heaver.
“We forgive, but we don't forget! Will you front up?” the council posted on its Facebook page on Monday morning.
By mid-afternoon there had been no response, prompting a follow-up featuring a cricket chirping, again tagging Nelson City Council. Marlborough District Council then joined in, sharing its own meme of Michael Jackson eating popcorn.
So, will Nelson City Council rise to the challenge?
To register a team, head to www.handsupforhospice.org.nz/heave
