Runners taking part in The Spectacle 2026 have another reason to lace up their shoes and hit the pavement, or trail, with every step now able to help raise money for charities across the Nelson Tasman region.
The Spectacle, an international event based in Nelson, was created by runners for runners of all abilities. In 2026, it takes place on 4-5 December.
“This year, we have integrated online fundraising platform Grassrootz into our registration system. This means every runner who registers for The Spectacle, in any event, can turn their entry into something bigger that gives back to the community,” The Spectacle co-founder Julian Matthews says.
“The Spectacle wouldn’t be the wonderful event it is without Nelson Tasman. As the event continues to grow and attract people to our beautiful region, it was a no-brainer for the team to make the event into something everyone can rally around, whether you’re running or cheering someone on.”
The Spectacle’s 2026 partner charities are: 261 Fearless; Big Brothers Big Sisters Nelson Tasman; Bone Marrow Cancer Trust/Rānui House; Brook Waimārama Sanctuary; Kai Rescue; Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust; Nelson Tasman Hospice; NZ Transplant Games Association; RISE; Speed Freaks Charitable Trust; and Whakatū Riding for the Disabled.
Runners can set up a page through Grassrootz’s digital platform, choose a participating charity to race for and start sharing their efforts with friends and family.
“It doesn’t matter how fast you are. Knowing each training session and footstep translates to donations to a charity you’re passionate about is that extra bit of motivation, whether you’re running five kilometres through the heart of the city or 100 kilometres through the backcountry.”
Participating charities say the partnership provides valuable opportunities to raise funds and awareness.
“This partnership means so much to Big Brothers Big Sisters Nelson-Tasman, not only through funds raised, but also through the opportunity to share our work with the wider community and even participate,” Big Brothers Big Sisters Nelson Tasman programme director Tracee Neilson says.
“The Spectacle is a wonderful celebration of community, connection and people challenging themselves – values that strongly align with our own kaupapa.”
Bone Marrow Cancer Trust/Rānui House, the largest patient accommodation provider in the South Island, has supported more than 1000 families from the Nelson Marlborough region in the past year.
“The Spectacle provides a fantastic opportunity for us to share the stories of the families we support, raise awareness of our work, and generate vital funds to help families through some of life's most challenging moments,” chief executive Mandy Kennedy says.
“We're looking forward to catching up with families, supporters and friends of Rānui, while sharing more about how we support families when they need it most."
“We’re delighted to be part of The Spectacle and appreciate the opportunity to share the story of Brook Waimārama Sanctuary with the wider community,” Brook Waimārama Sanctuary chief executive Chris McCormack says.
“Every person who discovers the sanctuary becomes part of our conservation journey, helping protect native wildlife and restore one of New Zealand’s most significant ecological restoration projects. Together, we can ensure future generations experience a forest alive with birdsong.”
Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust general manager Paula Muddle invites runners to join the trust’s 10km relay teams and help ensure the lifesaving service is ready for future missions.
“The Spectacle is fast becoming a nationally and internationally recognised event, showcasing the incredible landscapes we are so fortunate to have on our doorstep ... much of which our rescue crews know all too well through the missions they undertake.”
“Every day we see that life isn't measured by how fast we move, but by the difference we make to the people around us,” Nelson Tasman Hospice chief executive Tony Gray says.
“The Spectacle celebrates challenge, community and achieving something meaningful, and those values are closely aligned with Hospice. Whether someone is running to challenge themselves, celebrating life, or taking part in memory of someone they love, choosing to support Hospice can make their Spectacle story mean something even bigger.”
Julian encourages every runner to add a Grassrootz fundraising commitment to their race and says those considering entering should sign up before early bird pricing ends on 23 August.
