Kiwis Turning Alcohol Breaks Into Fundraising Push for Gut Cancer Awareness
A growing number of New Zealanders are reassessing their relationship with alcohol, and this March, that shift is being channelled into raising awareness and funds for one of the country’s most under-discussed cancers.
Gut cancers remain among New Zealand’s deadliest cancers, with 6,205 diagnoses and 2,920 deaths each year. Despite the impact on families and communities, public awareness and research funding continue to lag behind other major health priorities.
This month, the Gut Cancer Foundation is encouraging Kiwis to “Give It Up For Gut Cancer”, a national fundraising campaign inviting people to give up something meaningful for March to spark conversation and raise funds.
Alcohol is one of the most common commitments people choose to step away from.
Online drink retailer, The Chiller, which specialises exclusively in non-alcoholic drinks, has partnered with the Foundation to support the campaign.
The company has created curated bundles for March featuring non-alcoholic beverages designed to support gut health, brain function and overall wellbeing. The bundles are promoted on The Chiller’s website, with $5 from each bundle sold going directly to the Gut Cancer Foundation.
Founder Amanda Boock says the partnership reflects broader changes in how Kiwis think about drinking, and the campaign creates a natural moment of personal reflection.
“We’re seeing a genuine shift toward more conscious health decisions and drinking in moderation,” Boock says. “This challenge creates a moment to reflect on where we’re at with our own health and offers a reset point. For many people, stepping away from alcohol isn’t about restriction, it’s about awareness. Often that pause leads to longer-term habits around mindful drinking that extend well beyond the month itself.”
Boock adds that providing accessible alternatives is key to making participation socially sustainable.
“People don’t want to feel excluded from gatherings or celebrations. Having quality alcohol-free options means you can continue living your life; take part, host friends, and socialise, but in a way that aligns with your health goals.”
The partnership comes as alcohol consumption reaches an all-time low, while demand for alcohol-free options in retail and hospitality grows. Over recent years, expanded product ranges, dedicated non-alcohol sections and increased menu visibility have reflected rising consumer interest in moderation and no-alcohol alternatives.
Public health organisations have also noted that temporary abstinence campaigns, such as annual dry month challenges, can act as entry points for longer-term reflection on drinking habits. Health experts say these periods often encourage people to reassess consumption patterns and explore more mindful approaches beyond the duration of the challenge.
Boock believes aligning alcohol-free choices with a health-focused campaign strengthens the message.
“Our curated bundles intentionally bring together drinks that support gut health, hydration and overall wellbeing. By connecting those products to a cause that directly funds research into gut cancer, we’re making the choice more meaningful.”
She says the intention is not to frame the initiative as anti-alcohol, but as a practical way to support awareness of gut cancers and highlight the link between cancer and alcohol.
“This isn’t about attaching guilt to alcohol. It’s about giving people options and showing that a break from alcohol can also create positive impact for a cause that affects so many New Zealand families.”
Organisers hope the campaign will raise funds while also encouraging earlier conversations around symptoms, screening and prevention.
Throughout March, participants are encouraged to choose their personal “give up,” register their support through the Foundation’s campaign, and consider how temporary change might lead to longer-term lifestyle shifts.
About The Chiller
The Chiller is New Zealand’s leading online retailer specialising exclusively in non-alcoholic beer, wine, spirits, ready-to-drink cocktails and functional beverages. Founded by Amanda Boock, the business focuses on making alcohol-free choices accessible, high quality and socially inclusive. Its curated range reflects growing consumer demand for moderation and mindful drinking options
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https://thechiller.co.nz/collections/dry-month-reset
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