Turning Flowers into Hope: Daffodil Day

The yellow buds of Daffodils are starting to plump up across the country, just in time for Daffodil Day. They will bloom not just in gardens, but in hands, on lapels, in shop windows and offices. They are a burst of colour and a beacon of hope and for thousands of New Zealanders, they mean something even more profound.

Adrienne Matthews

Daffodils are the symbol of the Cancer Society’s annual fundraising campaign. This year it takes place on Friday 29 and Saturday 30 August when volunteers will be out and about all over the region selling the uplifting blooms. Every cent raised in the Marlborough region stays in Marlborough.

More than just a flower, the Daffodil represents courage, resilience, remembrance, and the unwavering strength of our communities as we rally together in the fight against cancer.

The Cancer Society of New Zealand’s Daffodil Day has become an iconic part of our national calendar. Since its first observance in 1990, it has grown into one of the country’s most recognised and cherished charitable events. What began as a simple street appeal has blossomed into a movement that inspires generosity and raises both funds and awareness in the battle against one of New Zealand’s biggest health challenges.

Cancer touches the lives of 1 in 3 New Zealanders. That’s at least 71 people every single day who hear the life-altering words: “You have cancer.” The number of people affected is expected to rise by 46% by 2040. Daffodil Day is a reminder that we are not powerless in the face of these statistics. By coming together as a community, we can change the future.

Marlborough’s Golden Heart
In Marlborough, Daffodil Day holds a special place. Each year, approximately 13,000 daffodils are sold locally which is a testament to the region’s generous spirit and commitment to supporting cancer patients and their families.

Over 180 clients and their whānau receive support from the Marlborough Cancer Society annually. This support includes everything from transport to treatment, emotional counselling, practical assistance like meals and volunteer companionship, and financial help in the form of petrol vouchers or shuttle tickets. For those needing to travel outside the region, accommodation is available at Margaret Stewart House in Wellington, and Daffodil House, Lodge, and Ranui House in Christchurch.

No one need face cancer alone thanks to the support of the society. When the Cancer Society asks Marlburians to “Give Today,” it goes beyond financial donations, although those are deeply appreciated and necessary. Giving can also mean volunteering time, raising awareness, advocating for change, or simply showing solidarity by wearing a Daffodil.

There are so many ways to contribute:

Buy a Bunch
Make sure to order your fresh Daffodil bunches early. They will brighten up your home, workplace or school and are a beautiful, simple way to support the cause.

Donate
Whether it’s a few coins in a street collector’s bucket or a larger online donation, every dollar contributes to cancer prevention, treatment, and support services. Donations also fund life-saving cancer research, with the Cancer Society having invested more than $50 million in research over the last decade. Donating to the Marlborough branch allows the valuable support for cancer sufferers right here.

“You can even sign up to become a member of Cancer Society Marlborough for a nominal cost offering us additional support,” says General Manager Pippa Hutton. Use the QR code or this link https://www.cancer.org.nz/about-us/find-a-cancer-society-office-near-you/marlborough/donate/.

Volunteer
Volunteers are the lifeblood of Daffodil Day. From collecting donations to delivering flowers or even offering transport to treatment for patients, there are countless ways to give back. Marlborough’s dedicated team of trained volunteer drivers provides free transport to those in need; a service that’s often life changing.

Host a Fundraiser
Why not turn your workplace, school, club, or community centre yellow this Daffodil Day? A little creativity goes a long way:

YellowFest: Everyone wears yellow! Add a ‘bake it or fake it’ sale or yellow lunch.

Matched Giving: Twist your employer’s arm to match employee donations.

The Big Daffodil Raffle: Raffle off a paid day off, a lunch shout, or a hamper.

Quiz Night: Host a fun quiz with entry fees donated to the cause.

Any workplace that raises $500 or more can enter the draw now to win tickets to a 2025 Blackcaps or White Ferns match, thanks to ANZ. Enter now at daffodilday.org.nz

Beyond the Blooms: Year-Round Support in Marlborough
The Marlborough Cancer Society provides ongoing services far beyond Daffodil Day, including support Groups for patients, families and caregivers; Rehabilitation Exercise Groups tailored for those undergoing or recovering from treatment; Look Good, Feel Better – a confidence-boosting forum; Education Sessions on topics like fatigue, lymphoedema and complimentary therapies; Information and Advocacy to help navigate the cancer journey.

These services are FREE, funded entirely by community support and fundraising.

A Symbol of Hope Since the 1950s
The Daffodil was chosen as the symbol of cancer awareness because it signals the end of winter and the beginning of spring – a powerful metaphor for renewal and hope. First used in Canada in 1957, New Zealand embraced Daffodil Day in 1990. Today, over 600,000 daffodils are used nationwide every year.

Local growers generously donate Daffodils, and the Cancer Society also purchases blooms to meet demand. Every flower represents love, loss, support, and the determination to fight back against cancer.

Turning Flowers Into Hope
As we approach Daffodil Day 2025, let’s remember the true power behind the petals. It’s more than just wearing a yellow pin or making a donation. It’s about standing with our community, with neighbours, friends, and strangers alike, to send a message that no one should have to face cancer alone.

By supporting Daffodil Day in Marlborough, you’re not only helping fund critical research and support services, but you are also lighting the path toward a future where fewer people hear the words “you have cancer,” and more people get to celebrate survival, resilience, and hope.

Let this be the year we all go yellow. Let’s turn flowers into hope.

Get Involved Today:
Call: (03) 579 4379
Visit: 76a Maxwell Road, Blenheim
Learn More & Donate: www.daffodilday.org.nz

Vintage Car Club Daffodil Rally for Cancer
Brayshaw Park | 10am – 3pm, Sunday August 24
Entry: $5 per vehicle | Gold coin donation for general public

This is a fun day out for the whole family. Vintage car Clubs around the country are getting together with Ford to raise money for the Daffodil Day cause and the Marlborough branch is no exception. They will be joining with McKendry Ford along with classic and vintage cars, boats, tractors, motorbikes, go-karts and more.

Enjoy a BBQ, tea and coffee, food carts, bouncy castle, and even train rides to Omaka. All proceeds go to the Marlborough Cancer Society.

This is their 8th year of participating in Daffodil Day and they have raised over $10,000 each year. “Let’s try to double it this time,” says club chairperson, Rob Galloway.

Together, we can make a difference, one Daffodil at a time.

DAFFODIL DAY EVENTS

24th August Daffodil Vintage Car Rally, Brayshaw Park 10am - 3pm

25th August Picking Daffodils

26th August Corporate Flower Bouquets delivered

27th August Picking Daffodils

29th August Daffodil Day Street Appeal

30th August Daffodil Day Part 2 at Westwood and selected supermarkets

31st August Donation Day Pelorus Area Health Trust, Havelock