Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet lives continue to be lost unnecessarily. With the right action, we can ensure no more families endure the heartbreak of losing loved ones to this disease.

We're at a critical turning point. The tools to eliminate cervical cancer already exist, early detection, vaccines, and improved healthcare access, but meaningful change can only happen if our government prioritises action.

By adding your name to the call for change, you lend your voice to a powerful movement demanding the steps needed to protect lives across New Zealand.

Claire, who lost her mum to cervical cancer when she was just 11, knows firsthand how important this is:

"Life is precious. I'm first in line for testing because I've seen what happens when cervical cancer goes undetected. We must take action now to end this preventable disease."

We need bold leadership to ensure:

• Universal access to HPV vaccinations

• Regular cervical screenings for all who need them

• Investment in better education and awareness

Together, we can turn the page on cervical cancer and save lives. Will you be part of this chapter?

Thank you for standing with us.

Sign the book and join the fight to end cervical cancer in New Zealand.

It's as simple as a quick a lie down. By the time you get up, you'll have your breast screen results.

Dr Jessica Fitzjohn's innovative breast cancer screening system is economic and accessible; private and pain-free; and uses vibration not radiation. She is one of the many innovators presenting at In Pursuit next year.

Her new breast screen device will make breast screening accessible to everyone and is a game changer for cancer diagnosis.

"You simply lie on the machine and vibrations will identify any rigid areas in the breast. The machine does the rest and sends a report which will indicate that breast cancer is present. Having an immediate answer certainly reduces anxiety for people who are at genetic risk from breast cancer.

"But the machine doesn't need specialists or lots of heavy equipment which allows for screening to be carried out anywhere and more economically. The patient just needs to lie on the machine, press a button read a book or check their phone for fifteen minutes and they're done. They can do it in complete privacy which also removes some cultural boundaries."

"I'm looking forward to demonstrating the machine at the In Pursuit conference next year."

The Cancer Society's Otago Southland and Canterbury West Coast divisions have merged under the Southern Cancer Society to meet rising service demands and maximise resources. CEO Nicola Coom highlighted that the merger ensures seamless support across the South Island for families, offering more choice and access to services, as well as the new Online Support Centre.

The merger has led to increased services, reduced duplication, cost savings, and consistent support. Funds raised locally will continue to stay within those regions to support transport, accommodation, counselling, and more. The merger has also enabled a boost in cancer research funding. The society's priorities include expanding reach, promoting early detection, building impactful partnerships, and sustaining funding. To further these efforts, the society will host a Research and Innovation Conference, In Pursuit, early next year.

Southern Cancer Society has launched an online tool providing greater access and choice to those diagnosed with cancer, their whānau and supporters.

Craig Watson, Southern Cancer Society Head of Cancer Services, says the tool allows families to find the support they need at their convenience. It is the first online offering offered by the Southern Cancer Society which was created following feedback from community to say they would also like to access support online.

 "Our aim is to make our services easily accessible and convenient to everyone who needs support during their cancer journey,' Craig said. "Finding trustworthy information about cancer is vital for your peace of mind. Our online support will help our families stay informed and empowered.

To sigh up or check out the site go to southerncancersupport.org.nz

Congratulations to Nirhjah, a final-year Software Engineering student at the University of Canterbury for developing the Screening for Health app as part of her final-year project with the Southern Cancer Society. With cancer remaining a leading cause of death in New Zealand, her work could help address the recent decline in cancer screenings across the country. 

The Screening for Health app was created to explore new ways to share information on New Zealand's three major screening programmes: Breast, Bowel, and Cervical. The app uses animations and quizzes to engage users in learning who should get screened, where, and about available support.

Public feedback was remarkable: cancer screening knowledge increased by up to 69%, with 85% feeling more positive about screening and 91% finding it more engaging than traditional flyers.

We had an unforgettable evening at the Naylor Love and Hugo Charitable Trust 'A Night in Paris' Cancer Society Ball, celebrating the incredible support for the vital work we do in Central Otago.

A huge thank you to our naming rights Sponsors, Naylor Love and Hugo Charitable Trust, for making this event possible. Your generosity truly sets the stage for impactful change.

We're also grateful to our Gold, Silver, and Bronze sponsors for their support: Gold Sponsors – Ground Anchor Systems, Millennium Hotel Queenstown, Silver Sponsor – Mitre 10 Mega Queenstown, Bronze Sponsors – Tahuna Spa, Design Group Stapleton Elliot, Carters Building Supplies Queenstown. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us for an incredible night at the Naylor Love, 25th Anniversary Cancer Society Spring Ball!

A massive thank you to everyone who came along, donated, and bid generously — your support made this event truly remarkable!

A special thanks to our naming partner Naylor Love and our gold sponsors, Marsh Family Charitable Trust, Anderson Lloyd, Craig & Jill Palmer from Bayleys Dunedin, Deloitte, Mercy Hospital, University of Otago, Silver Fern Farms, Harbour Fish for making this night possible.

A shout-out to our fabulous hosts and entertainment, Damian from The Breeze Dunedin, Grant from Ray White Dunedin, Sarah Simmers from Anderson Lloyd, Seen in Dunedin Chris Sullivan , The Execs and O-taiko for your entertainment and services!

The Longest Day Golf Challenge

The Longest Day golf is back! Are you ready to take on the challenge?

Have a whole day of fun while making a lasting impact on the lives of New Zealanders living with cancer. Players usually tee off at sunrise and play through to sunset, making the most of the daylight on the longest days of the year.

Ready to put yourself to the test for a great cause? Sign up now! https://longestday.org.nz/ or link in bio.

Marathon In A Month 

This November for Marathon in a Month, Isabell is taking on an incredible challenge by running 120km and aiming to raise $4,000 for the Cancer Society.

Inspired by her beloved Papa, who faced a brief but tough battle with cancer earlier this year, Isabell is determined to make a difference for families living with cancer.

Although her Dad can't be with her to achieve this goal, she's running to ensure other families have more time and receive the incredible support the Cancer Society provides.

If you'd like to help, donating is super easy—just follow the link below!

Thank You Daffodil Day 

A big thank to our supporters on Daffodil Day. Thanks to your amazing efforts and generosity. Southern Cancer Society has raised around $1.5 million which allows us to continue our work in providing support to individuals and families through their cancer journey, accommodation while they undergo treatment, invest in research to find treatments, provide prevention and education to help our communities stay well.

The sum raised equates to approximately 12% of the funds needed to continue to provide these services in the Southern Cancer area each year and, as the Cancer Society receives no direct funding from the Government without your on-going support, we would not be able to continue to provide these essential services.

So, again, a big heartfelt thanks from all of us here. Let's have even more fun next Daffodil Day. Together we can beat cancer.

Thank You to Our Amazing Community

We want to extend a big thanks to all the incredible trusts and organisations that have generously supported the Southern Cancer Society: Trust Community Foundation, Southland District Council, MainPower, Waitaki District Council, NZCT, Kiwi Gaming Foundation, Air Rescue and Community Services, and the Alexander McMillan Trust.

Your contributions make an invaluable difference, helping us provide essential support to individuals and families facing cancer in our community. Thank you for your generosity and for making a positive impact. We are truly grateful.

Free Wills Month - SafeWill

We're excited to announce an incredible opportunity just around the corner! This Black Friday, we're partnering with Safewill to offer you FREE wills for an entire week.

Mark Your Calendar: November 25 - December 2 

Whether you've been thinking about getting your affairs in order or just want to take advantage of this amazing offer, this is the perfect time to act. Safewill has made it easier and more affordable to write a bespoke Will online in 20 minutes.

If you want to stay up to date with the details, please sign up below. You won't want to miss this chance to secure your future!

Share your story

If you have been supported by our services or accommodation, participated in an event, or been part of our volunteer crew and you're keen to share your story, we'd love to hear from you.

Get in touch today:

Get support today

Living with cancer can be challenging, both physically and emotionally, for people with cancer and whānau.

We provide a range of free cancer support services to help you and your family cope with your cancer diagnosis and manage during your treatment and beyond.

You don't need to be referred by your GP or oncologist to contact us. Give us a call on 0800 226 237. We are here for anyone with cancer, at any stage and are available to answer any question.

You can also submit the form below for yourself or someone you care about who is affected by a cancer diagnosis: