There’s something powerful about a community coming together for a meaningful cause. That’s exactly what we set out to create with our very first Pink Ribbon Walk in Maungatūroto, a colourful, connected and supportive event to raise both awareness and vital funds for breast cancer.
Our Pink Ribbon Community Walk Inspiration
The idea stemmed from wanting to do something fun and inclusive for our local community. After hearing about a Matariki Walk organised by Keri Wynyard of Whangaruru, we were inspired to hold something just as impactful in our own area using the local community walkway.
October was the perfect time of year. With the rugby season wrapped up, it allowed space for reflection and reconnection. Even more importantly, it aligned with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a cause deeply significant to our club and wider community. Breast cancer has touched many, and this gave us a meaningful way to show support and solidarity.
Planning a Community Fundraising Event for Breast Cancer
The planning was community-driven and focused on making participation easy for everyone.
Pink Ribbon Walk in Maungatūroto
Breast Cancer Fundraising Event with Big Local Support
The Pink Ribbon Walk was an overwhelming success. More than 50 people took part in the walk itself, and many more came along to enjoy the food, show their support or make a donation.
Despite early forecasts predicting rain, the sun broke through and stayed with us all day. Pink wigs, tutus, T-shirts and big smiles filled the trail, and the day was filled with positive energy.
Thanks to everyone’s contributions, we raised an amazing $1,070 for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. You can learn more about how this funding supports research, education and support services here: Where your money goes.
Turning The Pink Ribbon Walk into an Annual Event
The positive response from this year's Pink Ribbon Walk has inspired us to make this a yearly tradition.
In 2026, we aim to add even more energy to the event with music, spot prizes and extra activities to keep it fun and family friendly. Most importantly, we’ll keep walking together to raise awareness and support action against breast cancer right here in our own backyard.
Community-Led Events with Purpose & Impact
While the day itself went smoothly, we still faced a few small challenges in the lead-up.
Weather worries were top of mind, but we were lucky to be gifted with sunshine in the end. Coordinating baking contributions and setting up for the sausage sizzle took planning and teamwork, but our community stepped up every time. The spirit of giving and pitching in was what made it all work.
Local Sports Club Participation in the Pink Ribbon Walk
The timing clashed with several events outside the district, meaning many Otamatea Hawks couldn’t attend the walk itself. However, they still played their part.
Some offered generous donations or baked goods, while our senior men’s coach, who also coaches the club’s Under 11s, took over the BBQ, serving up sausages from the sidelines and showing real club pride and commitment to the cause.
Join Us Next Year for the Pink Ribbon Walk – or Run Your Own
If you missed this year’s event, don’t worry. We’ll be back and bigger next October.
Whether you want to walk, bake, volunteer or simply donate, there's a place for everyone in our Pink Ribbon Walk. Every step brings us closer to raising awareness and supporting families affected by breast cancer across New Zealand.
To learn more about running your own community fundraiser or donating to support breast cancer care and research, visit the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ website.
Pink, proud and walking with purpose
RFL Coordinators Driving Purpose Through Community Events
At the heart of any great event like the Pink Ribbon Walk is the dedicated mahi of our RFL (Rugby for Life) coordinators. Grounded in the values of connection, empowerment and community wellbeing, RFL brings people together through sport, shared experiences and purposeful initiatives.
Coordinators across Aotearoa give their time and heart to create inclusive events that raise awareness and inspire action, while also reminding us that rugby clubs are more than just footy. They're a hub for positive impact where whānau, mates and neighbours rally behind causes that matter.