Opposition Leader Jenny Shipley is encouraging New Zealanders to go into the red, for the sake of a good cause.

"The National Heart Foundation is encouraging people to dress in red on Friday in recognition of Heart Day, and I'm only too happy to oblige," Mrs Shipley said.

"The Heart Foundation does essential work in research and health promotion, and I am pleased to have this opportunity to publicly express my admiration and support for their work.

"My own health scare of last year was a reminder of the need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I was given the 100 percent all clear, but the message of a healthy diet and sufficient exercise is now with me for life.

"If Heart Day can help others to heed that message then it will be a great success. I urge New Zealanders to support this important cause, and have a bit of fun at the same time by wearing red this Friday," Jenny Shipley said.

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