Event brings community together for diabetes awareness and fundraising
Residents of Ashburton and the surrounding area are invited to lace up their walking shoes and join a community-powered event focused on diabetes awareness. Ashburton Pakeke and Rakaia Lions have teamed up to host “Stepping Out for Diabetes” at Argyle Park on Sunday, a local stop along Lions Clubs New Zealand’s nationwide Lap the NZ Map initiative. The event combines a friendly group walk with informative stations, exercise tips, and opportunities to support diabetes education and prevention programs.
What is Lap the NZ Map?
Lap the NZ Map is a countrywide Lions Clubs New Zealand initiative designed to raise awareness about diabetes while encouraging healthy lifestyles through walking. The program invites local clubs to host accessible, family-friendly events that bring people together, share resources, and highlight practical steps for maintaining good health. By tracing a route that mirrors the country’s map, participants can engage with their communities and contribute to a broader health education effort across New Zealand.
Event details and what to expect
The Argyle Park gathering will offer a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Organizers plan a short, easy-to-wain walk suitable for families, seniors, and anyone curious about improving their daily activity levels. In addition to the walk, attendees can expect:
- Information booths with tips on nutrition, glucose monitoring, and healthy routines.
- Free health checks and advice from local healthcare volunteers and nutritionists (where available).
- Kids’ activities to help younger participants learn about healthy habits in a fun setting.
- Light refreshments and a chance to connect with neighbors and support networks.
“Lions member Janet Hadley said the event is about people stepping out for themselves and for their communities, while also supporting the vital work the Lions do in health and wellness,” a club spokesperson noted. The organizers emphasize that the event is non-competitive, focusing on participation, learning, and community spirit.
Why this matters for diabetes awareness
Diabetes affects thousands across New Zealand, and community-based events like Stepping Out for Diabetes help raise essential awareness, reduce stigma, and share practical tools for prevention and management. The Lap the NZ Map initiative aligns with nationwide health goals, encouraging physical activity as a key factor in reducing risk and improving overall wellbeing. By partnering with local clubs, Argyle Park becomes a hub for education, sharing resources, and building supportive networks for people living with diabetes and their families.
How to participate
Anyone is welcome to join the walk at Argyle Park on Sunday. Participants should come prepared for light outdoor activity and bring water. To keep the event accessible for families and individuals with varying abilities, routes will be clearly marked, with volunteers available to offer guidance along the way. Local residents and visitors are encouraged to invite friends, colleagues, and school groups to participate and learn more about diabetes prevention and healthy living.
Support and accessibility
Local Lions clubs are coordinating volunteers to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely. The collaboration with Ashburton Pakeke and Rakaia Lions highlights the strength of community-driven health initiatives. If you’re unable to attend but wish to contribute, information about donation options and resources will be available at the event and through the clubs’ networks.
A chance to make a difference in your backyard
Stepping Out for Diabetes in Argyle Park is more than a one-day walk—it’s a reminder that small, consistent steps can lead to meaningful health improvements. By participating, supporters help amplify diabetes education, support services, and preventative measures that can improve quality of life for many. The event also serves as a celebration of community resilience, inviting people to take a step forward together, with patience and persistence, toward healthier lives.
