Colour Run returns to Hastings in support of Cancer Society

Hastings will be awash with colour tomorrow as the Daffodil Day Colour Run returns to Mitre 10 Sports Park for its second year.

Last year’s inaugural event attracted more than 1,100 people and raised more than $6,000.

Cancer Society Hawke’s Bay Community Engagement and Fundraising Manager Sushmita Chakravarty said money raised through the event would stay in the region to support local people affected by cancer.

“Every dollar raised stays here in Hawke’s Bay, helping us provide practical support, information, transport assistance, accommodation support and care to local people and whānau affected by cancer,” she said.

“Last year’s event showed the incredible generosity of our community, and we’re excited to see it grow even further in 2026.”

The inaugural colour run in support of the Cancer Society. Photo/Duncan Brown Photography.

The event will be held at Mitre 10 Sports Park and features a 1.8km course with colour powder stations, music, entertainment and community activities.

Participants can walk, run or dance the course, and pets are also welcome.

Behind the event is Hawke’s Bay community advocate and cancer survivor Sukhdeep Singh, who has supported the Cancer Society for more than 12 years.

Singh was diagnosed with cancer in January 2016, just weeks after the birth of his first son, and is now in remission.

“Cancer has touched the lives of so many families in our community, including my own,” he said.

“It was a life-changing experience that gave me a firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by people and families going through cancer.”

Since his diagnosis, Singh has raised awareness and funds through head shaves, wellbeing walks and Walk of Hope initiatives, and has served as a Daffodil Day Ambassador for two consecutive years.

He launched the Colour Run last year as an event that people of all ages and fitness levels could take part in.

“Last year showed the incredible power of the community. More than 1,100 people came together, creating an atmosphere full of energy, laughter, colour and generosity,” Singh said.

“This is not about running fast. It’s about bringing people together for a fantastic cause.”

Singh said the event was an opportunity to support local families affected by cancer.

“Every one of us knows someone who has been affected by cancer. This event gives us an opportunity to come together, celebrate life, support those facing cancer and make a real difference for local families.”

The Daffodil Day Colour Run will be held at Mitre 10 Sports Park in Hastings tomorrow at 12.

Tickets cost $10 for adults, $20 for a family of four and $5 for each additional child. For more information click here