The Taranaki Health Foundation has launched its second annual Million Steps Challenge to support the Methanex Neonatal Unit at Taranaki Base Hospital.
Running throughout September, the campaign asks teams of four to collectively walk one million steps. All proceeds will go toward comfort enhancements for patients and whānau using the facility, which cares for premature and unwell newborns across the region.
Taranaki Health Foundation general manager Grant Carter says organisers are hoping to build on a highly successful inaugural event.
"Last year we had 150 people take part who raised over $25,000 and took a combined 42 million steps," Carter says. "This year we want to go even bigger."
A new addition to the 2026 campaign is a partnership with the New Plymouth Club. The downtown venue will act as a dedicated Challenge Hub where participants can access curated walks around New Plymouth and receive non-alcoholic beverages for their efforts.
New Plymouth Club chief executive Chris Robinson says his team is fully behind the initiative.
"Being a family orientated venue, we are aware how important supporting local community is," Robinson says. "This event is a great way for people to get active in September while also supporting an amazing local resource."
The challenge caters to all fitness levels and abilities. Those who prefer other forms of exercise can use a conversion tool on the fundraising website to translate different physical activities into steps.
Registrations are currently open for individuals, community groups, and local businesses. Details below 👇
Image Captions:
NP Club team Image:
The team at the New Plymouth Club are getting ready to take steps and support Neonatal Care in September
Neonatal Room image:
One of the new Neonatal rooms in the Methanex Neonatal Unit
