Honouring Norm Hewitt: Golf Fundraisers Supporting the MND Community

The Hewitt whānau is proud to announce two special golf fundraisers, organised in memory of Norm Hewitt, a beloved All Black and rugby stalwart, who passed away in 2024 after living with motor neurone disease (MND).

These events are dedicated to supporting Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand (MND NZ), raising vital funds for research, advocacy, and support services for the MND community.

Norm Hewitt was known for his leadership on and off the rugby field. He made 23 appearances for the All Blacks, captained the Hawke's Bay, Hurricanes, and New Zealand Māori teams, and became a household name after winning the first season of Dancing with the Stars. Norm’s life philosophy was centred on making time count, a value his family has carried forward through these fundraisers to ensure others with MND have the support they need to live life meaningfully and well.

Event Details

• Judgeford Golf Club: Friday, 14 February 2025
• Omanu Golf Club: Friday, 21 February 2025

Both tournaments follow the Four-Man Ambrose format, offering a fun and inclusive experience for golfers of all abilities. Whether you’re an experienced player or new to the sport, this is an opportunity to come together, honour Norm’s legacy, and contribute to a meaningful cause.

Get involved

• Judgeford Golf Club: Email or call 04 235 7633.
• Omanu Golf Club: Email or call 07 575 5957.
• Spectators Welcome: If you’re not playing, come along to support the participants and enjoy the day.
• Can’t join us? Support the cause by donating at MND NZ.
  

What These Fundraisers Mean for the MND Community

Proceeds from the golf events will go directly to MND NZ, helping to:

• Support Individuals and Families: Provide tailored resources, guidance, and equipment for those living with MND.
• Advance Research: Contribute to studies focused on improving quality of life and exploring potential treatments.
• Raise Awareness: Shine a spotlight on MND to ensure the challenges faced by the community are understood and supported.

The Hewitt whānau is also deeply committed to supporting research into MND, understanding its causes, and improving the lives of those impacted. Proceeds from these events will contribute directly to these vital efforts, helping to fund promising studies in New Zealand and globally.

Norm’s Legacy

Making time count wasn’t just a mantra for Norm—it was a guiding principle. His family is committed to honouring this philosophy by ensuring others in the MND community have the resources and opportunities they need to live life fully.

About Motor Neurone Disease New Zealand

MND NZ is the only charity in New Zealand dedicated solely to supporting individuals and families affected by MND. It provides advocacy, resources, and assistance to navigate the challenges of living with this complex disease. The organisation also funds research initiatives to improve care and move closer to identifying potential treatments.

A Message of Gratitude

The Hewitt whānau extends their heartfelt thanks to the MND community for their ongoing support. Whether you are living with MND, caring for someone, or advocating for change, your strength and courage inspire everything we do. Together, we can continue to build a better future for all those affected by MND.