Western Bay of Plenty residents are invited to lace up and “lap” part of Ōmokoroa Peninsula on October 17 to help bolster funding for diabetes support work.

Members from three Bay of Plenty Lions clubs – Ōmokoroa, Katikati and Waihī – have joined together to host a community fun walk, with proceeds going to Diabetes New Zealand.

Event spokeswoman Sara Patrick told Katikati News the walk is to help raise awareness of diabetes and promote healthy lifestyles in a fun, family-friendly way.

The fun walk will begin at 10am on October 17 and starts from the Ōmokoroa Pavilion at Western Ave Sportsground.

The 3.5km route, which includes about 500 steps, will follow the circumference of the local golf course, with sea views and mostly flat terrain.

“It’s a beautiful walk,” Patrick said.

The walk is open to all ages, abilities and fitness levels – and wheelchairs, prams, bikes, scooters and dogs on leads are welcome.

Those wanting to participate can pre-register online before the event, or register on the day. Entry is via gold coin donation. Registrations will close at noon.

Patrick said every kilometre walked would count towards the national Lap the Map challenge, an annual fundraising and awareness event held in November by Lions clubs alongside Diabetes New Zealand.

“People who participate will be helping to collectively cover the distance around New Zealand’s coastline.”

From left, David Parish, Shirley Miller, Sara Patrick, Anne Andrews and Gavin Burns on a reconnaissance of the October 17 fun walk. Photo / Helen McGinty

Patrick said more than 340,000 New Zealanders are living with diabetes and about 16,330 people are diagnosed with the condition every year.

“That equates to about 45 new diagnoses every day, highlighting the importance of education, awareness and early detection.”

Patrick said the walk’s event headquarters at the pavilion will also feature blood sugar testing, a sausage sizzle and family-friendly activities and spot prizes.

“The walk is a great opportunity for families, friends and community groups to come together, enjoy the outdoors and support a cause that affects thousands of New Zealanders every year.”

To get involved and help make a difference, one step at a time, register online at: https://events.humanitix.com/diabetes-awareness