Anyone looking to support a good cause is invited to participate in the iconic Relay for Life returning to Tauranga next year after a four year break.

Tauranga City Councillor and paralympian Tony Christiansen launched the event this morning by completing a lap of the track on Tauranga's waterfront.

Classic Hits presenters Will Johnston and Bridget Hastie are proud to support paralympian Tony Christiansen. Photo by: Zoe Hunter

Tony has been asked to be a patron for next year's relay, which he says he gratefully accepted.

'I will be doing everything I can to show my support. It's all about the awareness. I am quite proud to be part of it to be honest.

'The Cancer Society do extremely well with the support that they give people and families. It's a great cause and still is today.”

Tony was quick to show his support for the event because of the major impact cancer has had on his life, including the loss of some of his family members.

'Cancer affects everybody in some way or another. We deal with it every day.

'The ‘feeling good' part is the participation, knowing that what you are doing is helping everybody in one way or another.”

Waikato Bay of Plenty Cancer Society spokesperson Rachael Mounsey is exited to bring the event back to Tauranga.

'With a passionate volunteer committee driving Relay for Life and a fantastic new venue, it is shaping up to be a fantastic event. Spaces are limited so we suggest people register now to avoid missing out.”

Relay for Life involves teams of 10 or more walking around a track for 22hours with the opportunity for participants to fundraise before the event.

Rachael says while fundraising is an important part of relay there is so much more to it.

'It's not a race and only one person needs to be on the track at any time.

'Relay for Life is about encouraging everyone to celebrate with those who have overcome cancer, remember their loved ones lost to cancer, and fight back against a disease which affects one in three New Zealanders by fundraising for the Cancer Society.”

Team registrations are now open with businesses, community groups, schools, friends and families urged to get involved.

Entertainment including bands, performers, competitions and overnight camping is also available throughout the event.

The 2013 Relay For Life is on from 2pm on Saturday, 23 March to midday on Sunday, 24 March at the Tauranga Waterfront.

Classic Hits FM radio station will be broadcasting the event.

All funds raised go towards the Cancer Society to provide supportive care for cancer patients, their careers, family and friends in the Waikato/Bay of Plenty region.

The funds also assist cancer research and provide the public with information on ways to reduce the risk of cancer through a smoke free, sun smart and healthy lifestyle.

For more information about Relay for Life, or to register a team visit: www.relayforlife.org.nz, email events@cancersociety.org.nz or phone 07 571 2035.