Helen Carter
Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty chief executive

To the community of Ōpōtiki and the Eastern Bay.

I want to express my deepest thanks for all you have given to Daffodil Day, with particular thanks to our local volunteers and area co-ordinators.

While it may be our biggest fundraising event of the year, Daffodil Day carries special meaning and to many of us it is about connection, compassion, and hope.

The daffodil continues to stand as a figurehead for the 1 in 3 New Zealanders who will face a cancer diagnosis.

When we come together each August, we are reminding those on the journey that they are seen, supported, and surrounded by a community determined to make a difference. It was truly an honour to witness so much of our region painted yellow.

Over the past year, we have:

n Accommodated 2606 guests at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge

n Contributed $252,583 to cancer research

n Driven 104,657km taking our clients to their cancer treatment

n Provided 19,289 direct client services

These figures reflect the scale of the need – and the importance of your role in helping us meet it. As cancer rates rise, our resolve to be here for everyone person who hears “you have cancer” only grows stronger.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to every donor, volunteer, business, school, community group and staff member who contributed to Daffodil Day this year. Together, we are not just tackling cancer. We are building a future where no one faces cancer alone, and where hope grows stronger with every year.

I hope we’ll see you gain for Daffodil Day 2026.

Ngā mihi nui.