Wellington's Walk for Mental Health

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the event
What is the event trying to achieve?
It is an opportunity to raise both the profile of and funds for the mental health organisations taking part. It will provide a chance to make new links with other groups working in the sector and to make a major statement about how support for mental health in our community is essential and must receive a greater priority in the future.
Who can take part?
Any organisation which is providing mental health support services in the Wellington region. Any interested member of the community is most welcome to participate.
What part of the day do we come along?
That is entirely up to you. The event will start at 8am and finish at 8pm.
How long can I walk for?
The Cello Basin Reserve circular walkway is approximately 500 metres. You may do as many or few laps of the Basin as you would like. You walk for as long as you feel comfortable.
How do you fundraise?
We are inviting all mental health support organisations in Wellington to be a part of Wellington’s Walk for Mental Health.  

Once an organisation has registered they will be a nominated charity and will be listed on the website.

Once you have registered through our website you will be e-mailed and asked  

1. Which organisation you wish to support
2. Whether you wish to:
a) Make a donation directly to the organisation of your choice; or
b) Set up a Givealittle page to raise funds through your own networks  

School students and others supporting Lifting the Lid will use a sponsorship sheet which asks people to sponsor so much per lap. Lifting the Lid organisers will collect the funds directly.

In addition to publicly available metered carparks in the vicinity of the Basin Reserve, parking will be available at Wellington East Girls’ High School. We ask for a gold coin donation which Rotary members will be there to collect. There will also be donation buckets at the ground on the day for all who are there for the event. The funds collected from all these buckets will be divided between the charities that are nominated on Wellington’s Walk for Mental Health.  
Can family and friends come along?
Absolutely! It is hoped that youngsters, parents and grandparents will either come along or participate. It is hoped the event will be a fun family day out and is designed to be inclusive of all ages. The embankment and the lower half of the ground will provide ample room for individuals, organisations and interested parties.
Will there be food and drink available?
There will be a coffee cart at the ground and some basic refreshments available. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic.
What do you dress in for the event?
We are aiming for event Tee Shirts to be available, but the whole range of walking attire is appropriate and we are also encouraging fancy dress for spirited participants. When the event closes at 8pm there will be a short gathering where prizes will be awarded.
Is there anything else happening at the ground?
There will be a presence from all the organisations taking part with banners to indicate where you can get more information about each organisation’s work. The main screen at the ground will also have images and messages promoting the work of the community groups involved.

There will be an MC for the event and celebrities are being invited to join in the occasion through the day.  

The Minister for Mental Health, the Hon Matt Doocey will be there for the end of the event and will close proceedings.
Will there be music at the ground?
Yes, the sound system will be used playing a range of music at a reasonable level. Walkers may use ear pods if they wish to listen to their own music.

Register for the event

By participating in Wellington's Walk for Mental Health you will be raising vital funds for the Samaritans of Wellington, the Lifting the Lid on Youth Mental Health Project, and  other nominated mental health organisations operating in Wellington.
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