Every 22 minutes, another New Zealander hears the devastating news that they have cancer. In July alone, more than 2200 Kiwis will be diagnosed.

That’s why we go dry in July, said Veronica Shale, the New Zealand campaign director for Dry July.

Your mum, dad, sister, friend, colleague, aunty, uncle – every New Zealander knows someone affected by cancer, said Shale.

“This year, we’re asking you to show up for them and go alcohol-free for 31 days this July to raise money for life-changing cancer care across New Zealand.

“The emotional and mental toll of cancer often goes unseen, despite most New Zealanders being directly or indirectly impacted. That’s why it’s important we show up, not just in words, but in action.”

Dry July 2025 is here – and New Zealanders can still sign up and go alcohol-free for a month and raise funds to provide non-medical support for people close to them fighting cancer.

This year’s message from Dry July is that there’s nothing more powerful than showing up for others: think about your own personal connection to cancer and register for them.

People can participate in Dry July as individuals or as a workplace team and seek sponsorship.

Dry July raised more than $900,000 last year, and since it launched in New Zealand in 2012, more than 61,000 people have taken part, raising more than $10 million to support cancer patients, their whānau and carers.

Giving up alcohol is a small sacrifice for someone facing cancer, said Shale. “Act for your health, and theirs.” Take up the challenge at: www.dryjuly.co.nz