Working together to end poverty and injustice

Oxfam Water Challenge

Fun-raising in the Bay of Plenty!

To all of the generous people who have been involved in the Oxfam Water Challenge, unfortunately we have made the difficult decision to cancel the Oxfam Water Challenge 2012.

It’s no surprise that financial times are tough. Despite the fact that summer is finally here and there is much to be happy about, The global financial crisis and other factors are clearly causing some belt-tightening by families, businesses and other organisations.

And the events industry in New Zealand is feeling the pinch. While commercial institutions like the Big Day Out have been forced to close, high-profile charity events are taking an even bigger hit, with a 50% drop in team registrations and a 65% decline in fundraising.

The Oxfam Water Challenge is no exception. The event has been a fantastic way for New Zealanders in the water sector to come together and make a difference for communities in the developing world that are struggling to achieve some of life’s basics, like access to clean water and toilets.

The fundamental purpose of the Oxfam Water Challenge has been to raise money in support of these people. Unfortunately, it is not achieving that purpose.

Oxfam has made this decision because of an overriding commitment to poor and disadvantaged people across the Pacific and Southeast Asia.

When an event is not delivering for them, it’s a clear signal to focus on something that does.

Stay involved

Luckily, Oxfam’s long-term development work – and particularly the delivery of water, sanitation and hygiene solutions – remains strong, and there are a number of ways for people to continue to support that work. We truly hope you do.

1. Oxfam Trailwalker: Thousands of Kiwis have challenged themselves and challenged poverty through this life-changing, 100km walking event. We’ll happily apply your Oxfam Water Challenge entry fee to cover the Oxfam Trailwalker entry fee.

2. Round the Bays: If the thought of 100km is a little too daunting, why not join Round the Bays in Auckland (18th March, www.roundthebays.co.nz) or Wellington (26th February, www.wellingtonroundthebays.co.nz), and fundraise for Oxfam? At 7km (Wellington) or 8.4km (Auckland), Round the Bays has now grown to be one of the world's largest fun-runs! There is still plenty of time to register and the Auckland event is even scheduled for the same weekend as the Oxfam Water Challenge, so no need to change your plans.

3. Donate your entry fee and sponsorship to Oxfam: should you wish for your entry fee and fundraising to be refunded to you we will of course arrange that. Alternatively you could donate your entry fee and/or fundraising to support Oxfam’s current Water Appeal and we would be delighted to provide you with a GST receipt. Please contact sue.jenness@oxfam.org.nz to confirm your preference.

About Oxfam Water Challenge

Oxfam Water Challenge was a relay style race that celebrated World Water Day and raises vital funds for Oxfam's Water for Survival work, helping some of the poorest communities in the Pacific to access life-saving clean water and sanitation.

To find out more e-mail Chelsie.willis@oxfam.org.nz or phone 09 358 5904.

Thank you

We are thrilled to announce that over $70,000 was raised in 2011 towards our Oxfam Water for Survival projects, which provide life-saving clean water, hygiene education and sanitation to people in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. Your contribution has helped people in developing countries take their first steps out of poverty.

A big thank you to our sponsors Beca, Opus and Conneq for your support.