Light Up the Night for a Brighter Tomorrow

This year’s Whangārei Fireworks Spectacular isn’t just about lighting up the night sky -  it’s about lighting up hope. For the first time, all proceeds from this much-loved community event will go towards building the new Cancer Society accommodation lodge in Whangārei, a vital project that will support Northland cancer patients and their whānau.

For years, many Northlanders have faced long journeys to Auckland for treatment, often for weeks or months at a time, separated from loved ones and support networks. But that’s about to change. The Cancer Society Auckland Northland has officially confirmed the construction of a new lodge on Hospital Road, directly opposite Whangārei Hospital and within walking distance of the Jim Carney Cancer Treatment Centre.

Once complete, this purpose-built facility will provide a safe, welcoming place for patients and their families to stay while receiving treatment close to home, easing stress, restoring dignity, and ensuring no one faces cancer alone.

“This project is about supporting Northland communities receiving radiation treatment in Whangārei,” says Cancer Society CEO Andrew Young. “It will ease the burden for many by providing care and comfort closer to home, at a time when patients and their whānau need it most.”

Be Part of Something Meaningful

At the Fireworks Spectacular, the Cancer Society team will be onsite with a special interactive activation inviting everyone to get involved. Visitors can share messages of hope and support for the Northland Cancer Accommodation Project by writing what the new lodge means to them on bright yellow daffodils, the Cancer Society’s enduring symbol of hope.

Kids (and grown-ups!) can also meet Tāne the Taniwha, proudly wearing a yellow daffodil head to celebrate our charity partnership with the Northland Rugby Union. Stop by, join in a rugby passing challenge, and you might even win a Taniwha toy!

A Night of Fun That Gives Back

We’re incredibly thankful to the Whangārei Lions Club for leading this year’s spectacular event and choosing to support the Cancer Society’s lodge project. Every ticket, every spark, and every smile helps bring this life-changing facility one step closer to reality.

“Having grown up in Northland, I’ve seen first-hand the toll cancer takes on our communities,” says Charli Timms, Northland Regional Manager at the Cancer Society. “This lodge will offer relief, comfort, and connection for local people going through some of the hardest times of their lives.”

So gather your friends, pack a picnic, and join us for an unforgettable night under the stars, knowing that your enjoyment is helping to build a future of care and compassion right here in Northland.

Join Us

Whangārei Fireworks Spectacular

A night of fun, community, and hope

All proceeds supporting the Cancer Society’s new Northland Cancer Lodge

Together, we can make sure no one faces cancer alone.

Learn more or donate at cancer.org.nz

Photo: Cancer Society Board at Northland Build Site