AUCKLAND, Today: Aotearoa is being challenged to get moving this November, as Diabetes NZ launches its first-ever One Million Minutes of movement campaign.
The goal is simple, clock up one million minutes together. Whether it’s walking, running, cycling, or yoga, participants track their movement and encourage friends, whānau, or colleagues to sponsor them.
Money raised will support national and local programmes that help tamariki, rangatahi, and their whānau live well with diabetes.
Heather Verry, CE of Diabetes NZ, says the number of people being diagnosed with diabetes is rising fast, especially among young people.
“Being diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes is life-changing, and it can feel overwhelming and scary, especially for young people.
“The latest data released from the national Virtual Diabetes Register (VDR) shows that an estimated 348,500 people are living with diabetes in New Zealand, with around 67 people being diagnosed each day.
“We’re very concerned about this rising number and the lack of education and resources that are available to support these young people.
“We’re asking Aotearoa to get behind us this November during Diabetes Action Month by signing up to One Million Minutes, or to sponsor someone who is getting involved.
“I hope that by opening up about my story, I can help raise awareness about diabetes and encourage others to get tested if they experience any symptoms.” – Dion Collins
“While participants are raising awareness about diabetes through movement, they’re also doing something that’s good for their own health. Every minute of movement and every dollar counts.”
Backing the challenge is ambassador Dion Collins, professional basketball player, who’s sharing his own diabetes journey.
“In 2024, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes while I was on holiday in Bali. At the time, I was really tired and drinking a lot more water, but I just assumed that was due to being an athlete and hard training sessions.
“I was what many people would consider fit and healthy, so my diagnosis came as a complete shock. It made me realise that anyone can get diabetes.
“I’m joining the One Million Minutes of movement challenge to show young people living with diabetes that it’s going to be okay. I’d tell them I know how hard it is, but you will live a normal life and can still chase your dreams like I have.
“Talk to the people you trust, find your support system, listen to your body and slow down when you need it.
“I hope that by opening up about my story, I can help raise awareness about diabetes and encourage others to get tested if they experience any symptoms,” he said.
Normally around this time of year, Dion would be overseas playing basketball. But as he marks one year since his diagnosis, he’s focusing on learning more about his condition. That includes switching from daily injections to an insulin pump.
For his part in One Million Minutes, Dion plans to run half marathons and keep up his training, adding his minutes to the nationwide total.
Movement doesn’t need to be extreme. It could be taking the stairs, walking to work, joining a yoga class, or riding a bike. Every bit of activity adds up.
Participants can log their minutes on their fundraising page. They can sign up solo, get a team together with friends or colleagues, or even join their local Diabetes NZ youth team to support local initiatives.
More details and sign-ups are available now on the One Million Minutes webpage.
Share this Post
