Tauranga's Red Square will become a very pink square on Wednesday evening as thousands of people are expected to gather to celebrate, support and honour men and women diagnosed with breast cancer.

The House of Travel (HOT) Pink Walk is the flagship fundraiser for Tauranga Breast Cancer Support Service.

Tauranga Breast Cancer Support service manager Lea Lehndorf says the event also helps them continue offering emotional and practical support to about 200 women – and one or two men – diagnosed with breast cancer every year in Western Bay of Plenty.

'As a local and independent charity, we rely on this event and the generosity of our community to support locals going through tough times.

'We connect people with others in the same situation as support, with local survivors who act as inspiration, with information to put their minds at ease and with practical services as silver linings. 'All our services are free to those diagnosed.”

On October 21, the HOT Pink Walk festivities start with a warm-up with More FM and Tina Neville's Let's Zumba crew. There's a costume competition and a bird release during a moment of silent reflection for people who have been taken by the disease.

'Be in Red Square at water end, outside the BCSS tent by 5.30pm to be in the running for a costume award,” says Lea.

'Three individuals and three groups will be chosen to walk onto the stage and the crowd will vote the winners.”

While tickets are available for purchase on the night, people are encouraged to register early to avoid crowds and make life easier for everyone.

Tickets cost $5 from Z Energy stations, House of Travel Tauranga and Smiths Sports Shoes.

'If the weather is a little undesirable, just remember, it's nothing compared to cancer treatments – we'll be there rain, hail or shine,” notes Lea.

Full information is available at www.hotpinkwalk.co.nz