NZ Cancer Support is dedicated to providing compassionate, community-based care for Kiwis dealing with cancer. Through emotional support, practical aid, and advocacy, we work to ensure that no one walks the cancer journey alone.
We aim to bring local school music and dance groups to retirement homes to provide joy and entertainment. With the support of local performers we hope to create meaningful experiences for both the seniors and performers.
We are committed to raising awareness about the critical need for cancer screening and early detection. By inviting experienced oncologists to local events, we want to provide valuable information on the signs, symptoms, and preventative measures that can save lives. Individuals can also ask questions and receive expert advice.
Helps cancer patients and their families cope with the psychological stress and emotional challenges brought on by the illness, offering counseling, emotional support, and therapy services.
In 2025, Cancer support NZ gathered six volunteers for an online- Dance Therapy Program. Among the participants, some were facing sleep difficulties or emotional distress, while others were recovering from cancer treatment.
Under the guidance of a volunteer ballroom dancer, volunteers practiced gentle waltz movements for half an hour before bedtime. After several online sessions, participants reported better sleep, faster relaxation, and a brighter mood.
This activity demonstrated the positive impact of dance on both physical and emotional recovery, strengthening our belief in ‘ dance therapy’ as a gentle and effective non-medical approach.
Through this project, we learned empathy and patience, and we witnessed how small acts can create deep healing. Moving forward, we will continue exploring the connection between psychology and technology using dance + smart innovation to bring comfort, connection, and warmth to more lives.
Date: October 3, 2025
Location: Rosedale Village & Alden Ultimate Care Home
Participants: 9 volunteers from Cancer Support NZ
Beneficiaries: Over 100 elderly residents
To promote the spirit of care and companionship, Cancer support NZ organized a heartwarming visit to Rosedale Village on October 3, 2025. Nine dedicated volunteers prepared more than ten types of engaging and interactive cognitive games, such as pass-the-ball, balloon tapping, and Rubik’s cube challenges. These games were provided for entertainment and joy to the elderly residents but also supported them to exercise their responsiveness and coordination skills.
For those unable to join the games due to mobility challenges, volunteers offered gentle companionship and heartfelt conversations, ensuring that every resident felt seen, cared for, and valued. The two-hour event was filled with smiles, laughter, and genuine warmth.
At the end of the visit, the care home manager expressed deep gratitude to our volunteers and warmly invited our team to return in the near future, extending our companionship to elderly residents in expand to the hospital wards.
This experience left a profound impression on all volunteers. They gained a deeper understanding of the elderly’s need for emotional connection and companionship, while also discovering the true joy that comes from serving others. The happiness sparked by acts of kindness and the “dopamine of giving.”
Cancer Support NZ will continue to carry forward this spirit of service, joining hands with the wider community to bring care, dignity, and joy to the elderly, one heartfelt visit at a time.
Cancer Support NZ recently held a community fundraiser at the Takapuna Market, selling popcorn and drinks to raise funds and awareness for our cause. We were grateful to have the support of some amazing volunteers who generously gave their time to help run the stall and engage with the public. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with locals, share our mission, and raise vital support for those affected by cancer across New Zealand. Thank you to everyone who stopped by — your generosity helps us continue making a difference.
