A fundraising goal of $150,000 was comfortably exceeded by Relay for Life in Dunedin at the weekend.
By 4pm yesterday, the event at Forsyth Barr Stadium for the Cancer Society had raised more than $170,000.
The event’s signature feature is people walking and running laps — many of them cancer survivors or people who have lost relatives to the disease — and this is complemented by live music, food trucks and face-painting for children.
Among those completing circuits at the 12-hour event on Saturday was Peter Trevathan, dressed as Batman.
He was part of a Dunedin and Southland cosplay charity group and said his costume was "quite easy to put together if you have a creative mind".
Mr Trevathan’s mother died in 2018 of a brain tumour.
"I do it for her", he said.
Antony MacKay was part of the team and he wore an elaborate Mandalorian outfit, connected to Star Wars.
The costume had aluminium componentry and Mr MacKay built it himself over about six months.
He lost a grandmother to cancer about two years ago and, before than, an aunt about a decade ago.
There remained an emptiness in the family from their loss, Mr MacKay said.
"This is one of the most important charity events of the year", he said.
Teresa Shaw was part of the "Mustang gang", formed in honour of her father Kevin McAlevey, who died eight years ago on Saturday.
"He loved his cars", she said.
"This event brings people together.
"The money raised helps families in their time of need."
Cancer Society Otago and Southland events manager Emma Anderson said 99 teams participated.
The fundraiser has traditionally alternated each year with a University of Otago-hosted relay.
Miss Anderson said it was the first time in eight years the event had been held at the stadium. Six years ago it was run at the Caledonian Ground and more recently there were Covid-19 interruptions.
"It’s been nice to have it back", she said.
Money raised helps the Cancer Society to provide accommodation and transport to patients and their families, contributes to research, and funds practical and emotional support services to people affected by cancer.
