Relay For Life Te Ara Toiora is back on track.

The relay is an annual fundraising event run by the Cancer Society, bringing people together either as individuals or in teams to raise funds for those affected by the disease.

It is being held on March 4, at Takaro Park, between 2pm and 9pm.

The event has been running in Ōamaru for the past six years but did not go ahead the last two years due to Covid restrictions.

North Otago Relay for Life event coordinator Lisa Rush said the day was “all about celebrating the beautiful people in the community”.

“It's also a special event to remember loved ones lost to cancer, and the ability to fight back as a people and community.”

The day provided the opportunity for friends and family to come together and experience a wonderful atmosphere of celebration and remembrance, she said.

Participants in the relay complete laps around Takaro Park. There was no specific distance to complete - it could be as many or as few laps as individuals or teams wished to complete over the seven hours.

All money raised from the event stayed in the community, Lisa said.

The day was for people of all ages and fitness levels, and about 250 participants were expected.

“Some may have a connection to someone who has been or is going through cancer, while others just want to make a difference," she said.

Other activities at the park will include a bouncy castle, a rock painting station to write messages to lost loved ones, and an outdoor activity centre for kids.

Line dancing, the Rock and Roll Club, and fitness classes with the Waitaki Recreation Centre will also provide some entertainment between laps.

Keeping people fed on the day will be Mitre 10 with a sausage sizzle, Ōamaru Rapid Relief offering up burgers, the Lion’s Club selling candy floss, along with other food and drink vendors.

All entries are free, and there are prizes for teams with wackiest outfit, most laps completed, most fundraised, and best team baton.

An auction of donations from local businesses would also take place, Lisa said.

“We've also had an unbelievable amount of support from local businesses. People in North Otago are amazing!”

At sunset, there would be a candlelight ceremony for people to remember those who had died from cancer. 

Teams and individuals can sign up at relayforlife.org.nz