Although they don't know each other and live very different lives, Ian Coventry and Neve Power share a common bond.

Four years ago, both were diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, a condition that has significantly changed the way they and their families live their lives.

Neve Power.

Ian Conventry.

The two will soon meet when they participate in a new running and walking event, the Ohope Express, established to help raise awareness and funds for DESA, the Diabetes Exercise and Sport Association.

Ian, aged 48, and Neve, aged 10, were selected as event ambassadors as they have learned to cope with Type 1 diabetes, while maintaining active lifestyles.

Ian will run the half-marathon course with wife Justine, and Neve will complete the 5km course.

'I'm going to run the 5km with my mum and dad,” says Neve.

'I like this event because it will help people know more about diabetes. Having diabetes doesn't change who I am, but it does mean I sometimes have to do things differently.”

Neve and Ian have learned that a healthy lifestyle is essential to living with diabetes, and diet and exercise play a key role in successful management of the disease.

Ian admits that the months after diagnosis were very tough.

'My greatest achievement is completing a six-hour adventure race six months after being diagnosed,” says Ian.

'I'm living proof that diabetes is something that can be managed successfully with some slight lifestyle adjustments. I can't emphasise enough how important it is to stay fit and healthy.”

Diabetes is an auto-immune disease where the body attacks cells that make insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

Type 1 diabetics must take regular blood tests and inject insulin; this form of diabetes cannot be prevented or cured, while Type 2 diabetes can.

The latter can be managed through diet and exercise, especially if caught early. Precursor symptoms for Type 2 diabetes include fatigue, thirst, or frequent infections.

New Zealand's best beach, Ohope, will host the new event this Easter Saturday.

Participants can run or walk one of three distances – 5, 10 or 21.1km.

Event organiser, Mike van der Boom says helping DESA was a good fit with his business' philosophy.

'We are committed to supporting projects that benefit the community and environment. Diabetes now affects 1 in 20 New Zealanders and we can help by raising awareness and funds for DESA, and providing fun events that help people achieve an active and healthy lifestyle.”

All funds from the 5km event go directly to DESA. 10km and half-marathon participants can make a donation or they can sign up for ‘Canter for a Cause'.

anter for a Cause fundraisers pledge to raise a minimum of $200, and those who are successful are eligible for a special prize draw.