Christchurch turned up in true Canterbury style for The Long Run 2026 – damp, rainy and absolutely full of heart.
For the fifth year running, thousands came together at Rugby and Malvern Parks to run, walk, cheer and fundraise in support of the Child Cancer Foundation. What began as a lockdown marathon raising $5,000 has now grown – as Crusaders Team Manager Aaron “Webby” Webb puts it – into something that “attracts thousands of people and raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for charity.”
And this year was no exception.
Despite the weather and an early finish due to lightning overhead, the event still clocked a staggering 38,000 laps and raised an incredible $270,000 for kiwi kids and their families navigating the toughest journey of their lives.
Team Aotea Electric: Running for a Reason
As always, Aotea Electric Canterbury laced up and stepped up.
Our 2026 team finished 3rd overall, completing 1,381 laps – an effort made even more impressive given the wet conditions, slippery course and early shutdown. Every person who ran, walked, marshalled or supported played a part in something much bigger than a tally.
This is why we return every year.
Because every lap genuinely counts.
Because every dollar raised helps families facing unimaginable challenges.
Because community matters.
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Making the Long Run Go Further: The Aotea Virtual Challenge
One of the pieces we’re most proud of is the Aotea Virtual Challenge – an idea born from the Aotea team’s love for the event.
We wanted everyone to be able to participate, even if they couldn’t make it to the park on the day.
So now, from anywhere in Aotearoa – or the world – supporters can:
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Create a fundraising profile
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Choose a personal lap goal
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Log their 1 km laps online
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Contribute to the overall total and fundraising effort
It’s a simple way to broaden the impact, bring more people into the cause and show that no matter where you are, you can Crusade With Heart.
Why It Matters
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, life changes overnight.
The Child Cancer Foundation is there immediately, offering emotional, practical and financial support to families who suddenly find themselves facing the unimaginable.
Your donation, your laps, your support… it all helps ensure no family walks that journey alone.
That’s why The Long Run exists.
And that’s why Aotea will continue to be there – running, donating, supporting and spreading the word.
See You in 2027
Whether you’ve joined before or you’re considering it for the first time, The Long Run is a free, welcoming community event open to everyone.
Grab your mates.
Set a goal.
Sign up for the Aotea Virtual Challenge if you can’t make it in person.
And run for a reason – because every lap is bigger than us.
Here’s to another year of heart, grit and community.
And to everyone who turned up in the rain… you’re the reason these kids and families feel supported.
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