Every step made a difference at Walk to Defeat MND 2025

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 take action.

Across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and our community regions, we walked for those living with motor neurone disease, for those we have lost, and for a future where MND no longer exists. Every step, every conversation, and every shared moment strengthened the connection between us, reminding us that while MND takes so much, it can never take away our determination to fight back.

The atmosphere was filled with a mix of emotions—hope, remembrance, and a deep sense of purpose. Families walked in honour of loved ones, teams of friends and colleagues rallied together, and even our 55 four-legged companions added to the spirit of the day. Many walkers proudly wore their Walk to Defeat MND t-shirts, caps, and other merchandise, not just as a sign of solidarity on the day but as a lasting reminder of their commitment to the cause.

A look at what we achieved

• $150,000 (and counting) raised to support Kiwis living with MND
• 900 incredible walkers took part
  
• 55 superstar dogs joined the movement
• The first $100,000 will go directly to MND research

But beyond the numbers, the real success of this event was in the connections made and the awareness raised. Every person who took part played a role in amplifying the message: MND takes lives, but together, we give hope.

Why we walk

MND is a disease that takes so much. It gradually strips away movement, speech, and the ability to breathe—yet it cannot take away the strength of a community determined to make a difference.

The funds raised from the Walk to Defeat MND will:

• Provide specialised support services for people with MND and their families
• Fund research to improve care and work towards future treatments
• Advocate for better access to services, equipment, and funding

We walk because every kilometre raises awareness, helping more people understand the reality of MND and why urgent action is needed. We walk because every dollar raised provides vital support. And we walk because we believe that, one day, a cure will be found.

A huge thank you

This event would not have been possible without the incredible support of our volunteers, donors, and partners. A special thank you to the Rapid Relief Team, whose dedication kept walkers fuelled throughout the day and ensured that all funds raised from food and drink sales went directly to MND NZ.

A heartfelt thank you to every individual, family, workplace, and team that walked, fundraised, donated, or supported from afar. Your involvement ensures that those living with MND receive the care they need while also driving the research that will one day lead to new treatments—or even a cure.

What happens now?

The impact of this walk doesn’t end here. Thanks to your efforts, the money raised will directly support:

• People living with MND through expert advice, support services, and essential resources
• Research initiatives focused on improving quality of life and working towards a cure
• Advocacy efforts to ensure better access to funding, equipment, and support services

One of the key initiatives funded by this year’s walk is the upcoming MND Insight Survey, led by MND NZ’s research advisor, Dr Natalie Gauld. This nationwide survey will provide the most comprehensive understanding yet of what it’s like to live with MND in New Zealand. By collecting real-world data from people with MND, caregivers, and whānau, this research will help identify gaps in support services, advocate for better access to treatment, and drive funding into areas that will have the greatest impact.

The first $100,000 raised from this year’s walk is going directly into research, including this critical survey. The results will shape future advocacy efforts, ensuring that people with MND have access to the resources and care they need while also informing research aimed at improving treatment options and, ultimately, finding a cure.

💙 Want to continue showing your support? Walk to Defeat MND merchandise is still available. Every purchase helps fund research and support services. Get yours at www.mndwalk.org.nz.

💙 Explore a wide selection of photos from the walk events on the MND NZ Facebook page.

💙 Were you there? We’d love to see your photos. Please send them to or tag us on social media.

💙Missed out? It’s not too late to contribute—donate today at www.mndwalk.org.nz.

The fight against MND doesn’t stop here. Let’s keep walking, hoping, and believing—together, we can defeat MND.

The team at Motor Neurone Disease NZ