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More Than a Hike: Breast Cancer Cure Raises $174,000 at Lake Hāwea Station

For the second consecutive year, Lake Hāwea Station was proud to host a remarkable weekend of fundraising in support of Breast Cancer Cure, welcoming an extraordinary community of supporters, volunteers, sponsors and advocates united by a common purpose. Led by Breast Cancer Cure CEO Sonja De Mari and supported by dedicated hosts including Venetia Wilson, Jessica Taplin and Tess O’Neill, the event once again demonstrated the power of community to create meaningful change.

Under crystal-clear autumn skies, more than 500 hikers gathered at the station to take on the iconic Breast Peak Challenge. For many, reaching the summit was achievement enough; for others, the challenge continued on to Breast Hill, completing the now legendary “Double Breast” trek. Throughout the day, participants crossed regeneratively farmed landscapes, shared stories, encouraged strangers who quickly became friends and experienced the unique beauty of the Upper Clutha. The atmosphere was one of determination, connection and hope, with every step taken helping to fund world-class breast cancer research.

Back at the station, hikers were welcomed with refreshments, celebrations and a well-earned sense of accomplishment. As the sun set behind the Southern Alps, the focus shifted from the mountains to the marquee for Dine for a Cure. Hiking boots were exchanged for country-friendly stilettos and jackets as guests gathered for an evening that celebrated generosity, innovation and optimism.

Chef Dane Archery of Archery & Co delivered a memorable dining experience showcasing the very best of local and seasonal produce, reflecting Lake Hāwea Station’s commitment to regenerative food systems and meaningful hospitality. The evening was expertly guided by Petra Bagust, while keynote speakers Sir Ian Taylor and Karen Walker captivated guests with thoughtful conversations about leadership, creativity, resilience and New Zealand’s future.

What makes Breast Cancer Cure unique is its unwavering focus on funding scientific research here in New Zealand. While many charities provide support services and advocacy, Breast Cancer Cure exists to back the researchers, laboratories and breakthrough discoveries that ultimately improve survival rates and outcomes for New Zealanders. Through partnerships with leading scientists and research institutions, funds raised help ensure vital breast cancer research continues, supporting the people working tirelessly to better understand, prevent and treat the disease.

By the close of the weekend, more than $174,000 had been raised to support the vital work of Breast Cancer Cure. More importantly, the event reinforced what can be achieved when a community comes together with purpose, proving once again that extraordinary places can inspire extraordinary outcomes.

Breast Cancer Cure

More Than a Hike: Breast Cancer Cure Raises $174,000 at Lake Hāwea Station

For the second consecutive year, Lake Hāwea Station was proud to host a remarkable weekend of fundraising in support of Breast Cancer Cure, welcoming an extraordinary community of supporters, volunteers, sponsors and advocates united by a common purpose. Led by Breast Cancer Cure CEO Sonja De Mari and supported by dedicated hosts including Venetia Wilson, Jessica Taplin and Tess O’Neill, the event once again demonstrated the power of community to create meaningful change.

Under crystal-clear autumn skies, more than 500 hikers gathered at the station to take on the iconic Breast Peak Challenge. For many, reaching the summit was achievement enough; for others, the challenge continued on to Breast Hill, completing the now legendary “Double Breast” trek. Throughout the day, participants crossed regeneratively farmed landscapes, shared stories, encouraged strangers who quickly became friends and experienced the unique beauty of the Upper Clutha. The atmosphere was one of determination, connection and hope, with every step taken helping to fund world-class breast cancer research.

Visit the site
Breast Cancer Cure

More Than a Hike: Breast Cancer Cure Raises $174,000 at Lake Hāwea Station

For the second consecutive year, Lake Hāwea Station was proud to host a remarkable weekend of fundraising in support of Breast Cancer Cure, welcoming an extraordinary community of supporters, volunteers, sponsors and advocates united by a common purpose. Led by Breast Cancer Cure CEO Sonja De Mari and supported by dedicated hosts including Venetia Wilson, Jessica Taplin and Tess O’Neill, the event once again demonstrated the power of community to create meaningful change.

Under crystal-clear autumn skies, more than 500 hikers gathered at the station to take on the iconic Breast Peak Challenge. For many, reaching the summit was achievement enough; for others, the challenge continued on to Breast Hill, completing the now legendary “Double Breast” trek. Throughout the day, participants crossed regeneratively farmed landscapes, shared stories, encouraged strangers who quickly became friends and experienced the unique beauty of the Upper Clutha. The atmosphere was one of determination, connection and hope, with every step taken helping to fund world-class breast cancer research.

Visit the site
Breast Cancer Cure

More Than a Hike: Breast Cancer Cure Raises $174,000 at Lake Hāwea Station

For the second consecutive year, Lake Hāwea Station was proud to host a remarkable weekend of fundraising in support of Breast Cancer Cure, welcoming an extraordinary community of supporters, volunteers, sponsors and advocates united by a common purpose. Led by Breast Cancer Cure CEO Sonja De Mari and supported by dedicated hosts including Venetia Wilson, Jessica Taplin and Tess O’Neill, the event once again demonstrated the power of community to create meaningful change.

Under crystal-clear autumn skies, more than 500 hikers gathered at the station to take on the iconic Breast Peak Challenge. For many, reaching the summit was achievement enough; for others, the challenge continued on to Breast Hill, completing the now legendary “Double Breast” trek. Throughout the day, participants crossed regeneratively farmed landscapes, shared stories, encouraged strangers who quickly became friends and experienced the unique beauty of the Upper Clutha. The atmosphere was one of determination, connection and hope, with every step taken helping to fund world-class breast cancer research.

Visit the site

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