Cure Kids' annual Red Nose Day returns this September and aims to be bigger than ever, with Kiwis invited to enjoy a range of activities throughout the month to raise more than $1 million towards vital research to improve, extend and save the lives of Kiwi kids.

Traditionally Red Nose Day fundraising has been centred around one day, however the Red Nose Appeal will run throughout the month of September, allowing New Zealanders to get even more involved – from hosting mufti days, raffles and morning teas, to taking on fundraising challenges – in the build-up to the iconic day itself, Red Nose Day, on Friday, September 28.

"Red Nose Day holds a special place in the hearts of many Kiwis, many of whom will remember the first one held back in 1989," says Cure Kids CEO Frances Benge.

"This year we're planning to make the Red Nose Appeal one of the biggest yet to help fund high-impact medical research by experts committed to actively finding cures and better treatments for serious childhood conditions."

Funds raised from the Red Nose Appeal will go towards important areas of child health, including stillbirth, cystic fibrosis, child cancers, obesity, autism spectrum disorders, asthma, inherited heart conditions, mental health, infectious diseases, epilepsy and type 1 diabetes.

Schools, communities and businesses around the country are invited to think creatively when it comes to initiating fundraising activities this year. From hosting an event to selling homemade goods, or setting a challenge and asking friends and family to donate in support, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

Those keen to don a novelty red nose can head to Briscoes, Rebel Sports stores and Columbus Coffee cafes in September to make a $3 donation for one of the limited-edition noses, designed by Kiwi kids.

For more information about how to join in the Red Nose Appeal visit www.rednoseday.co.nz