The response to Oamaru's first Relay for Life Cancer Society fundraising event has amazed organisers, with 54 teams registered.
The relay is set down for 24 hours from noon on Saturday, March 12 at Whitestone Contracting Centennial Park.
''I think it's amazing, outstanding. It's beyond our expectations,'' Otago-Southland Cancer Society chief executive Mike Kernaghan said yesterday.
Oamaru event manager Janie Peck described the response as ''very special'' and the team entries as ''more than expected''.
Mr Kernaghan said other parts of New Zealand were envious about the numbers who took part in the relay in Otago and Southland, particularly centres with smaller populations, such as Oamaru.
''They are incredulous how we can generate that support from small populations,'' he said.
The Relay for Life was introduced in New Zealand in 2001 and, last year, 16 events raised $2.6 million, making it the biggest fundraiser for the society.
Between 900 and 1000 people are expected to turn out for their teams, plus supporters and spectators. Teams have already been fundraising for the event.
The public can go along to watch two of the features of the relay - the first lap of honour at noon by North Otago people who have been diagnosed with cancer at any time, and the candlelight ceremony at 9.15pm on the Saturday night.
The relay and all events will be on the back fields behind the Centennial Park oval. After the relay, discussions with the Oamaru community will determine when the next relay will be held.
They are usually every two years.
