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Taupo Seeks Volunteers for Breast Cancer House & Garden Tours

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. nteers-for-breast-cancer-house-garden-tours.html
  Published in House and Home on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 10:15 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
      Locales: Taupo District, Bay of Plenty Region, NEW ZEALAND

Taupo, New Zealand - February 6th, 2026 - The Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand is actively seeking volunteers in Taupo to participate in its increasingly popular house and garden tours, a cornerstone fundraising event that directly supports vital breast cancer research and support services. Following successful tours in other regions, the Foundation is focusing on expanding the Taupo initiative, aiming for an even larger and more impactful event this year.

The concept is simple, yet profoundly effective: homeowners graciously open their properties - homes and gardens alike - to the public for a limited time, allowing visitors to admire local design, horticultural skill, and community spirit, all while donating to a critically important cause. This year's planned dates are November 14th to 16th, 2026, reflecting adjustments based on feedback from previous events and optimizing for weather and visitor accessibility.

This isn't just about beautiful houses and well-tended gardens; it's about collective action against a disease that affects one in ten women in New Zealand. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer for women, and the funds raised through events like the Taupo tours are crucial for driving advancements in early detection, treatment, and ultimately, finding a cure. The Foundation channels donations into research grants awarded to leading scientists and clinicians, as well as providing essential support services for individuals undergoing treatment and their families.

Fiona Evans, Community Engagement Manager for the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand, emphasizes the dual benefit of participation. "It's a fantastic way for homeowners to showcase their creativity and passion for their properties, while simultaneously making a tangible difference in the lives of those impacted by breast cancer," she explains. "We consistently hear from both homeowners and visitors how rewarding the experience is. It's a celebration of community, beauty, and generosity."

The Foundation provides comprehensive support to participating homeowners, including promotional materials, signage, volunteer coordination assistance for entry fee collection, and guidance on preparing their properties for visitors. The level of homeowner involvement is flexible; some choose to be present during the tours to interact with visitors, while others prefer to simply open their spaces and allow the beauty to speak for itself.

Beyond the Garden Gate: The Growing Impact of Community Fundraising

The Taupo house and garden tours are part of a broader shift within the Breast Cancer Foundation towards increased community-led fundraising initiatives. Recognizing the power of local engagement, the Foundation is actively empowering individuals and groups to organize their own fundraising events, ranging from bake sales and fun runs to corporate sponsorships and art auctions. This decentralized approach not only expands fundraising potential but also fosters a stronger sense of ownership and commitment within communities. [ Learn more about other ways to fundraise on the Breast Cancer Foundation website ].

In 2025, the Foundation reported a record-breaking fundraising year, attributing a significant portion of this success to the growing number of community-driven events. The expansion of the Taupo tours is seen as a key component of continuing this upward trend. They are also exploring partnerships with local businesses to further enhance the visitor experience and broaden the reach of the event. This includes potential collaborations with cafes, restaurants, and accommodation providers to offer discounts and packages to tour attendees.

How to Get Involved

If you are a Taupo resident with a beautiful home and/or garden and a desire to contribute to a worthy cause, the Breast Cancer Foundation encourages you to consider volunteering. Similarly, individuals interested in volunteering to assist with event logistics, such as ticket sales or guiding visitors, are also welcome.

To express your interest or learn more, you can contact the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand directly at (0800) 273 223 or visit their website at [ breastcancerfoundation.org.nz ]. The Foundation is also hosting an information session at the Taupo Community Events Centre on March 12th, 2026, at 2:00 PM for those interested in learning more about the tour and the volunteer opportunities available. Don't miss this chance to blossom for a cause!