Phillipa MacDonald’s incredible fundraising journey

From diagnosis to determination When Phillipa MacDonald was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) on her 55th birthday, her world changed overnight. Once a practice nurse and competitive bodybuilder, she suddenly faced the challenges of progressive bulbar palsy (PBP), a form of MND that affects speech and mobility. Determined to raise awareness and support for … Read more

Emma Scotter Lab 2025 2

Motor neurone disease (MND) research is advancing at pace, with new discoveries bringing hope to those affected. The team at the University of Auckland’s MND Research Lab is working to uncover the genetic causes of MND in New Zealanders, develop targeted therapies, and improve support for families. Thanks to the generosity of MND NZ and … Read more

Some of the MND NZ team bringing energy, colour, and joy to the Auckland Walk to Defeat MND.

Months of hard work, dedication, and planning went into making the 2025 Walk to Defeat MND a reality. But no amount of preparation could create the energy, passion, and impact that people bring to this event. The walk is nothing without the individuals, families, and teams who show up—not just to take steps, but to … Read more

For Jeremy Benton, the Walk to Defeat MND isn’t just another fundraising event.

For Jeremy Benton, the Walk to Defeat MND isn’t just another fundraising event—it’s a personal journey. Every year, he dedicates countless hours to ensuring the Christchurch walk is a success, helping to unite people in support of those affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND). His motivation? Honouring the memory of his grandfather, who passed away … Read more

In honour of her mother’s memory, Donna McKay has organised the Rakaia Walk to Defeat MND.

Across Aotearoa, communities are coming together for the Walk to Defeat MND, raising vital awareness and funds for those affected by motor neurone disease (MND). Each walk is more than just a fundraising event—it’s a personal journey, a show of solidarity, and a way to honour those we’ve lost. For Donna McKay, this walk is … Read more

Herobannerpng

Start off your year on a positive note by volunteering on Saturday 22 February 2025 in Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch. Walk to Defeat MND brings communities together to walk in honour, memory, and in support of people affected by MND and raise awareness and much needed funds for research and support. Walks vary between 2-3km, … Read more

General Walk Website Blog Banner

We’re excited to announce the 2025 Walk to Defeat MND will take place on Saturday, 22 February! Join us in Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch for a day of solidarity and support: Further details will be published soon. Community WalksCan’t make it to an official location? You can organise your own community walk! Whether you’re personally … Read more

Heartland Championships - North Otago

On Saturday 21 September our friends at North Otago Rugby Football Union (NORFU) hosted a special day of rugby at Weston Sports Ground to raise awareness and vital funds for MND. The day kicked off with a North Otago v Mid Canterbury match, with the NORFU team running out in special charity branded one-off jerseys, … Read more

Bowling Fam Higher Rez

We’re Mat and Darren Bowling — brothers, fathers, partners, and sons. Last year, our dad became one of the many people in New Zealand taken by motor neurone disease (MND). It’s a cruel, unforgiving illness. Everyone diagnosed with MND faces the same devastating prognosis: there’re no truly effective treatment options, and no cure. When we … Read more

Norfu Rugby Event

Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand (MND NZ) is partnering up with North Otago Rugby Football Union (NORFU) and Bunnings Timaru to help increase acceptance and understanding of motor neurone disease (MND) in the community and raise vital funds for those impacted by MND. NORFU is hosting a special day of rugby on Saturday 21 September … Read more