To each and every one of our incredible Relayers – thank you.
The enthusiasm, energy, and heart you brought to Relay For Life Nelson Tasman 2026 was nothing short of extraordinary. Seeing nearly 1,000 people come together to walk, remember, honour, and celebrate was truly something special. Our small team is completely blown away – not only by you, but by the incredible support you received from your whānau, friends, workplaces, donors, and supporters.
Together, our amazing community has raised $246,830. This is an outstanding achievement and a true reflection of the aroha that exists right here in our region. These funds will make a real and lasting difference for people and whānau facing cancer across Nelson Tasman.
With 995 participants across 70 teams, this year’s Relay showed just how powerful it is when a community comes together with a shared purpose. At its heart, Relay is about connection – bringing together those who have experienced cancer firsthand, those supporting loved ones, and the many individuals, groups, and businesses who want to make a difference.
A huge thank you also goes to our incredible volunteers, sponsors, suppliers, local businesses, entertainers, kids’ activity crews, masseuses, food vendors, and supporters. It truly takes a village to bring an event like this to life, and every contribution, whether through funding, time, services, or support, helped create something truly meaningful.
The impact of this support is felt every day. Over the past year, we have walked alongside more than 600 people and their families across our region. Our Support Coordinators/Kaiārahi provide one-on-one support, helping people navigate their cancer journey, access services, organise financial assistance, and connect with counselling, support groups, and wellness programmes. Just as importantly, they are there to listen.
Funds raised through Relay also help provide volunteer drivers to get people to treatment, and volunteer visitors who offer companionship when it’s needed most. As demand continues to grow, this support is more important than ever.
To our amazing Relayers – you brought the energy, the heart, and the magic. You made every moment unforgettable, and we are so grateful for everything you gave.
Relay only comes around every two years, but thanks to you, its impact will be felt across our community every single day.
From the bottom of our hearts – thank you.
We’re already beginning to look ahead, with plans underway for our next Relay For Life Nelson Tasman in mid-March 2028. We can’t wait to do it all again with you.
— Venus, Cyndy, Vick, Barb, Sarah, Maureen and Tāwhaki, Cancer Society Nelson Tasman Team
View images on Facebook
Survivor & Carers Celebration Afternoon Tea
Relay For Life Nelson Tasman 2026 Event pics
View more on our social pages here:
Relay For Life Facebook Group
Our Facebook page and Instagram page
Relay For Life in the News – Thanks to Top South Now (Top South Media) and Nelson Mail
Nelson Tasman Relay For Life raises six figures – Nelson/Waimea Weeklys (18 Mar)
Stepping up for Relay for Life – Nelson Magazine – March edition (12 Mar)
Breast cancer survivor leads Relay For Life fundraising – Nsn/Waimea Weekly’s (8 Mar)
Arvida Angels raise thousands for Relay for Life – Waimea Weekly (2 Mar)
Breast cancer survivor joins Relay For Life – Nsn/Waimea Weekly’s (27 Feb)
Bob rebuilds life after cancer and readies for Relay For Life – Waimea Wkly/The Guardian (18 Feb)
Supporting vital cancer services – Nelson Mail (14 Feb)
