Local Breast Cancer Survivors Launch Fundraiser For Global Event

Hawke’s Bay’s very own Kaha Sisters - formerly known as the Bay Bosom Buddies - a team of 12 breast cancer survivors brought together through the healing power of dragon boating. As a proud members of Hawkes Bay Dragon Boating Club, they now preparing for a journey of a lifetime, gearing up for the ultimate show of strength, sisterhood, and survivorship: the International Breast Cancer Dragon Boat Festival in France, 2026.

Set to bring together over 4,500 paddlers from 320 teams across 37 countries, the festival is more than a sporting event—it’s a global celebration of courage, community, and connection among breast cancer survivors. Representing Aotearoa New Zealand, the Kaha Sisters are determined to be there.

But before they reach the global stage, they’re inviting the community to join them for a night of heart, high fashion, and hope.

The Style Soirée — Fundraising with Heart and Style

Saturday 12 July 2025
The Old Church, Meeanee
2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Tickets from $125 – available at https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2025/jul/the-style-soiree

The Style Soirée is a runway fundraiser with a difference. Fusing circular fashion, courageous beauty, and community storytelling, this elegant afternoon will feature 11 Kaha Sisters taking to the catwalk alongside other inspiring wāhine. With styling by Lesley Leech of Raspberry Beret, the show celebrates timeless fashion and fearless women through themes like The Little Black Dress, Designer Dupes, and Embellished Elegance.

Alongside the fashion show, guests will enjoy:

French-inspired canapés, bubbles, and petit fours

A powerful keynote from quadruple amputee and speaker Korrin Barrett

A live auction featuring high-end fashion, art, accommodation, and experiences 

Real stories of strength and survival from the Kaha Sisters

Light-hearted hosting by “Jean-Paul Gaultier” and “Madame Vivienne Westwood”

“This isn’t just about fashion,” says Michelle Danks, event coordinator and paddler. “It’s about celebrating strength, raising vital funds, and showing what’s possible after a cancer diagnosis.”

Meet the Kaha Sisters

Each Kaha Sister has her own powerful story — united by a shared journey through breast cancer, and the paddle that gave them purpose.

Karen, a mother of two, was diagnosed at just 36 and given less than a 20% chance of survival. One of the youngest members of the team, Karen beat the odds.

“I love the spirit, support, and camaraderie of the Kaha Sisters. To represent the HB Dragon Boating Club in France alongside these other courageous women is an honour and a privilege.”

Joanne, a mother of two and a health services quality coordinator, was diagnosed in her early 40s. She credits dragon boating with helping her rediscover physical confidence, move on from breast cancer and find other strong women doing the same.

“While unbelievably grateful to be here, the impact of the cancer treatments was I lost faith in my body’s healthiness and strength. Dragon boating has helped me get this back, in part because I see the strength and determination in my fellow teammates and it feels so good to push myself physically together with an amazing team.”

Kim is a two-time breast cancer survivor, HB dragon boat paddler, Kaha Sister — and damn grateful to be here.

“Dragon boating gives me strength. It makes me feel whole, not broken. I love the feeling of flying through the water — yet having to work at it together to make it happen. I have a tribe now. They paddle beside me and lift me... always.

We laugh, we cry, and we paddle 'til we drop. It's a blast, and I wouldn't have it any other way.”

Leonie, a self-employed business consultant, was diagnosed at 46 during a routine mammogram — thank goodness for a forward-thinking doctor!

“When asked what I do outside of work, hands down — apart from family — it’s my passion for dragon boating.

I’ve discovered a sense of being, becoming, and belonging as part of the Kaha Sisters, and a shared ambition to compete at the International Breast Cancer Survivor Dragon Boating Festival in France in 2026. Viva la France!”

Their stories — and many more like them — will be front and centre at the Style Soirée, bringing awareness to the life-changing power of community, sport, and resilience.

We Need Your Help to Reach France

The Kaha Sisters are aiming to raise $85,000 to cover:

• International travel and accommodation

• Training and competition gear

• Representation on the world stage at the International Breast Cancer Dragon Boat Festival

Sponsorship & Support Opportunities

We welcome contributions from individuals, businesses, and organisations who want to make a difference locally and globally. Sponsorship tiers range from Platinum ($10,000) with naming rights and national visibility, to Friend of Kaha ($500 and under) — perfect for small businesses or personal supporters. In-kind donations such as services, materials, and promotional support are also hugely appreciated.

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