The Spectacle: Nelson running event adds charity fundraising through Grassrootz
A popular Nelson running event has given participants another reason to lace up and hit the pavement.
The Spectacle is an independent, New Zealand-owned international running event held in December.
This year, organisers have integrated online fundraising platform Grassrootz into the registration system, meaning runners can pick a local charity to race for.
Runners can set up a page through Grassrootz’s digital platform, pick a participating charity and share their efforts with friends and family.
Spectacle co-founder Julian Matthews said as the event expanded, it was a “no-brainer” to rally around local charities.
“This means every runner who registers for The Spectacle – in any event – can turn their entry into something bigger that gives back to the community,” said Matthews.
“The Spectacle wouldn’t be the wonderful event it is without Nelson Tasman.
“As the event continues to grow and attract people to our beautiful region, it was a no-brainer for the team to make the event into something everyone can rally around, whether you’re running or cheering someone on.”
Matthews said it also gave runners “that extra bit of motivation”.
“It doesn’t matter how fast you are – knowing each training session and footstep translates to donations to a charity you’re passionate about is that extra bit of motivation – whether you’re running 5km through the heart of the city or 100km through the backcountry.”
The Spectacle’s 2026 partner charities include: 261 Fearless; Big Brothers, Big Sisters Nelson Tasman; Bone Marrow Cancer Trust/Rānui House; Brook Waimārama Sanctuary; Kai Rescue; Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust; Nelson Tasman Hospice; NZ Transplant Games Association; Speed Freaks Charitable Trust; RISE; and Whakatū Riding for the Disabled.
Matthews encouraged every runner to add a Grassrootz commitment to their race on December 4 and 5.