Bequests
Your generosity will live on for many generations
A gift in your will can support people affected by cancer now and fund world-class research for a cancer-free future.
And we will pay $250 plus GST towards the cost of your legal fees.
What legacy will you leave?
There are many ways to leave your mark on the world.
Everything you do, such as your connections with your family/whānau and friends, your work, sporting or community activities, all contribute to memories of you.
Another way is to leave a planned gift to the Cancer Society in your will.
By doing so, your kindness will live on, improving lives long after you have gone. When you support us, you become a partner in helping to reduce the incidence and impact of cancer affecting our families and our communities.
A gift in your will to the Cancer Society:
- you will change lives for the better by ensuring those going through cancer receive compassionate care and support
- you will fund world-class cancer research which helps people live better and longer with cancer
- you will help reduce preventable cancer through our health awareness work in the community
Bequest Brochure
You can view our Bequest Brochure here.
Contact Us
For more information contact:
Michelle Hunt, General Manager
michelle.hunt@cancernelson.org.nz
Phone 03 539 1137
How your Will has the power to change lives.
Through the generous bequest of David Blunt, we’ve been able to provide 4,361 skin check vouchers over the past four years to residents of the Nelson Tasman region.
“As someone who spent my entire life in the Nelson region, I’ve always loved our long sunshine hours and the endless opportunities for outdoor activities. My passion for tramping and the outdoors defined my life, but I was also mindful of the higher risk of skin cancer that comes with our sun-filled lifestyle.
Over the years, I became closely involved with the Nelson Tasman branch of the Cancer Society and gained a deep appreciation for the vital role they play in our community. It was for this reason that I decided to leave a bequest—to ensure skin checks are made more accessible to everyone in our region, especially to those who might not otherwise seek help.
In addition to making annual skin check vouchers available, I also wished for my bequest to support other SunSmart initiatives, such as the Shade Loan program, and to provide Support Grants for individuals affected by cancer, helping them access the care and assistance they need during challenging times."
– David Blunt, Bequestor
The late Don Heslop, a passionate horticulturist and cancer survivor, generously left his cherished daffodil field to Cancer Society Nelson Tasman.
Don's journey with daffodils began over three decades ago when he planted 500 bulbs on his Lower Moutere property. His dedication transformed the field into a flourishing two-acre expanse of vibrant blooms.
Don's wish was to support our cause by allowing us to pick these beautiful flowers annually for Daffodil Day, helping raise awareness and funds, all without accepting any profit himself. By bequeathing his daffodil field to us for next 30+ years, Don ensured his legacy of care, dedication, and community support would live on through the daffodils, which continue to symbolise hope and strength for those affected by cancer.
A Lasting Legacy: Edith Bradley’s Commitment to Cancer Research
Edith Bradley was a remarkable woman who led an extraordinary life. Originally from Canada, she moved to New Zealand in the 1960s to work on tobacco farms in Riwaka, where she met her Kiwi husband. Her husband’s battle with cancer was one of both hope and heartbreak, as he became the first person in New Zealand to receive a liver transplant. Sadly, due to complications, he passed away.
Having served in the Air Force during WWII, Edith was no stranger to resilience and dedication. Her personal connection to cancer, through her husband’s journey, sparked her interest in cancer research. When Edith passed away, she ensured her legacy would continue through a bequest to Cancer Society Nelson Tasman, specifically designated to support cancer research.
Each year, Edith’s generosity contributes to research levies that fund crucial advancements in cancer treatment. Over the past decade, the Cancer Society of New Zealand has invested more than $50 million into life-saving research, with Edith Bradley’s bequest playing an ongoing role in that mission. Her thoughtful gift honors her husband’s memory and helps fuel the progress that will save lives in the future.
You can find out more about cancer research funding by the Cancer Society of New Zealand here.
A Legacy of Hope: Honouring Charlie Symonds
In 2022, Charlie Symonds made a profound commitment to supporting those facing cancer in our community. He arranged to bequeath $25,000 to Cancer Society Nelson Tasman, ensuring his support would continue beyond his lifetime.
Charlie’s generosity extended far beyond this remarkable gift - he was a regular donor and a dedicated advocate for our work. His kindness and unwavering belief in the importance of cancer support services touched many lives.
Following his recent passing, we honour Charlie’s legacy and the lasting impact of his bequest. We were privileged to present him with a Hope Fellowship pin as a token of our appreciation, and today, we reflect on his generosity with gratitude.
To Charlie’s family, we extend our heartfelt thanks. His generosity will continue to make a difference, providing hope and care to individuals and families navigating cancer.
Thank you, Charlie. Your legacy will not be forgotten.