PRESS RELEASE: Former NZ MP Cycles 3,000kms for Kids with Cancer: Nuk’s Ride
Former Member of New Zealand Parliament and community leader Nuk Korako is embarking on an epic journey across Australia to raise funds and awareness for children battling cancer. Starting in Perth on Saturday 20 September, Nuk will cycle more than 3,000 kilometres across the Nullarbor Plain, finishing in Melbourne on Saturday 18 October. The ride, known as Nuk’s Ride for Kids with Cancer, is a major fundraising initiative in support of Australian Child Cancer Foundation and the New Zealand Child Cancer Foundation.
Each day, Nuk will ride between 120–190 kilometres, stopping in towns and communities along the way including Cunderdin, Merredin, Kalgoorlie, Ceduna, Tanunda, Ballarat and more. The route highlights the immense challenge ahead—crossing some of Australia’s most remote and rugged landscapes—but also the resilience and determination that mirrors the courage of children fighting cancer.
“Every kilometre I ride is for a child and their family facing the toughest battle of their lives,” said Nuk Korako. “This ride is about hope, awareness, and ensuring more resources go into research and care for kids with cancer.”
Childhood cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death among Australian children. Through this campaign, Nuk is seeking to raise vital funds that will:
• Support research into new treatments and cures.
• Provide advocacy for families navigating the cancer journey.
• Empower children and their families with better resources and care.
The ride also aims to draw national attention in both Australia and New Zealand to the urgent need for stronger support systems and investment in paediatric oncology.
Community Call-Outs
Nuk’s journey is about connecting with local communities along the way. Locals are encouraged to come out, cheer him on, and show their support:
• Perth (20 Sept): Join us at the Perth CBD start line to send Nuk off in style.
• Kalgoorlie (23 Sept): Cheer Nuk as he rolls into the Goldfields on his way east.
• Ceduna (3 Oct): Welcome Nuk to the gateway of the Eyre Peninsula.
• Tanunda (9–10 Oct): Meet Nuk during his rest day in the Barossa – a chance to say hello and hear his story.
• Ballarat (15–16 Oct): Be part of the Ballarat welcome before the final leg into Melbourne.
• Melbourne (18 Oct): Celebrate the finish line as Nuk completes his incredible 3,000km journey.
How to Support Nuk’s Ride
The public can get behind Nuk by donating via the official fundraising page: anzcareride.give2ccf.com. Every contribution, big or small, helps fund research and provide life-changing support to children with cancer and their families.
Event Details
• Start: Perth CBD, Saturday 20 September
• Finish: Melbourne, Saturday 18 October
• Distance: 3,000+ km
• Beneficiary: Australia Child Cancer Foundation and the New Zealand Child Cancer Foundation
About ANZCARE
Nuk founded ANZCARE to keep the spirit of ANZAC alive while improving the lives of children with cancer across Australia and New Zealand. The organisation funds research, advocates for better care, and empowers families through their journey.
About Nuk Korako
Nuk Korako is a respected community leader, former New Zealand Member of Parliament, and long-time advocate for social causes. With a proud Ngāi Tahu heritage, Nuk has dedicated much of his life to public service, governance, and championing initiatives that strengthen communities. Beyond politics, he has worked extensively in business and philanthropy, always with a focus on creating opportunities and positive outcomes for others. A passionate supporter of child health and wellbeing, Nuk has taken on the challenge of cycling more than 3,000 kilometres across Australia to raise awareness and funds for children living with cancer—combining his determination, resilience, and heart for service in this monumental ride.
Media Contacts
On The Road In The Office
Chris Korako Dominique Leeming
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