A sea of purple has been spotted throughout Tauranga today, and all in the name of a worthy cause.

More than 500 people have shown face at an event centred on raising awareness for those living with dementia in New Zealand.

The annual Memory Walk has been facilitated by Alzheimers Tauranga/WBOP, kicking off at Coronation Park from 10am.

It is one of more 20 walks that has been held throughout New Zealand this month as part of World Alzheimers Month.

Tauranga MP Simon Bridges, Labour List MP Jan Tinetti and Mayor Greg Brownless are just some of the faces who have been spotted in the crowd.

Old and young alike were smiling and supporting each other at today's event waving balloons, donning purple and even a few canines dressed in purple to support the cause.

"The atmosphere was a happy one to conclude the World Alzheimer's month, which has seen many events, collections and sausage sizzles," says Sarah Bolt who attended.

For more information regarding the work of the Alzheimer's association in the Tauranga area, contact:

Alzheimers Tauranga phone: (07) 577 6344 or visit the centre at 116 Thirteenth Avenue Tauranga 3112.

Alternatively you can contact the organisation by email: [email protected]