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What if 30 walks could help make a difference for thousands of people in our community?

That’s the idea behind The Good Walk 2026, a simple October challenge supporting Tauranga-based Good Neighbour and the remarkable work it does across the Bay of Plenty.

The challenge is straightforward: complete 30 laps during 30 days. You can walk on your own, with friends, family, workmates or as part of a team, and raise sponsorship along the way. And if walking isn’t your thing, you can still get behind the cause by sponsoring someone or making a donation.

Good Neighbour event manager Hayley Fruish said there’s a particularly welcome incentive to the challenge.

“Every dollar raised will be matched by the event’s sponsors – Tauranga ITM, Holland Beckett Lawyers, Ryans Double Glazing – meaning donations can go twice as far.”

Fruish said the organisation’s work reaches well beyond food rescue and redistribution to organisations who help people in need.

“Our volunteers also help provide practical assistance, community meals, firewood, showers and laundry facilities, social support, youth programmes and help with community gardens,” she said.

“The Good Walk is a big push encouraging people to donate to Good Neighbour or they can sign up and do the walk anywhere – on their own, in their local area, or with friends.”

The month culminates in a Community Celebration Walk at Coronation Park on Saturday, October 31. “We will have a sausage sizzle and entertainment from 10am-12pm, along with one final walk around Pilot Bay and Main Beach back to Coronation Park.”

This October, why not sign up, donate or sponsor someone at goodneighbour.co.nz/thegoodwalk26