On Sunday 22 March, something special happened at the Whanganui Racecourse.
What began as an idea – a shared vision between Jah Hittaz and Hospice Whanganui – turned into a powerful display of community, generosity, and kotahitanga.
Together, we raised $9,952 to support Hospice Whanganui’s patient- and whānau-led care.
A kaupapa grounded in community
From the very beginning, this event was about more than cars.
It was about bringing people together – whānau, car clubs, supporters, volunteers, and the wider Whanganui community – all united by a shared purpose: to support hospice care.
The energy on the day reflected that. Hundreds of people came through the gates. Cars lined the racecourse. Conversations flowed. And everywhere you looked, there was connection.
What this support makes possible
Hospice Whanganui provides specialist palliative care, free of charge, to people in our community.
That care happens wherever whānau need us – at home, in the community, or in our inpatient unit – guided by Te Hau Awe, our patient- and whānau-led model of care.
Events like Hittaz for Hospice help make that possible.
Every entry, every gold coin, every moment of support contributes directly to ensuring people can access care, dignity, and choice at the most important time of their lives.
Ngā mihi nui – thank you
To Jah Hittaz – thank you for your vision, your energy, and the heart you brought to this kaupapa.
To the car clubs, vehicle owners, and supporters who showed up – thank you for being part of something bigger.
To our volunteers and staff who worked behind the scenes – thank you for making the day run so smoothly.
And to every single person who came along, donated, or supported in any way – this impact belongs to you.
The power of kotahitanga
This is what kotahitanga looks like.
A community coming together.
Showing up.
Giving what they can.
And in doing so, making hospice care possible for others.
Arohanui,
Hospice Whanganui