For many, Daffodil Day marks the start of spring and a reminder of the great work achieved by the Cancer Society.  For John Harrison and the team at Fiesta Bulbs, Daffodil Day represents the culmination of up to twelve or more months of meticulous planning and hard work nurturing daffodils, which are sold nationwide.

Fiesta have been involved since the inception of the Daffodil Day Campaign 25 years ago, and over the last three seasons, has collaborated with their retail customers around New Zealand to also join the cause. Harrison says, "Whist we provide the product, we couldn’t contribute without our retail partners many of whom also donate directly to this wonderful cause.”

During Daffodil Day week, Fiesta Bulbs offered a range of fresh daffodils with a portion of sales donated to the Cancer Society. Today they proudly handed over a cheque representing their donation of $25,647, which was received by The Cancer Society of New Zealand’s Palmerston North representative. The funds raised will go towards scientific research into the causes and treatments of all types of cancer, as well as ongoing support and awareness campaigns nationwide.

Over the years, Fiesta Bulbs, who are based in Manawatu, have developed new products and techniques to ensure they have ample stock come Daffodil Day week – which means more money raised for this great cause. 

Harrison says, “Typically on Daffodil week our team pick, process, pack and transport around 60,000 bunches (some times more); that’s 600,000 stems, 600,000 times bending over and picking each stem, attach 60,000 rubber bands, prepare stacks of cartons, involving plenty of early starts and late nights. To us it is absolutely worth it and is nothing compared to what many cancer sufferers are going through every day.”

Claire Austin, CEO, Cancer Society of New Zealand says, “Fiesta Bulbs have played an integral part in making Daffodil Day a success over the past 25 years. We are so thankful for the funds they raise every year to help the one in three New Zealanders who are affected by cancer. We hope to continue our involvement with Fiesta Bulbs for many more years to come.”

For information about Daffodil Day visit: www.daffodilday.org.nz or for more information about Fiesta Bulbs visit: www.fiestabulbs.co.nz.