Frequently Asked
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Got some hairy questions about Shave for a Cure? Here’s what you need to know:

Do I have to shave my hair?
add remove

No! While shaving is the classic move, you’re free to get creative. Cut, colour, or style your hair however you like – whether it's a funky new hairstyle, a bold buzzcut, or a daring splash of colour. What matters most is your support for Kiwis affected by blood cancer.

When do I shave, cut or colour my hair?
add remove

Shave for a Cure is a year - round event, so you can shave, cut or colour at a time that suits you!

Where do I get my new hairdo?
add remove

You can get your new do at home, workplace, school, university or make a public event of it. Another idea is to host a Shave at your local hair salon as a way to invite others to join in and raise more funds. It's up to you.

Whatever you choose, be sure to share before and after photos on your fundraising page to encourage your friends to support you.

Who can do my hair?
add remove

You will need to organise for someone to shave, cut or colour your hair for you, including sourcing your own gear such as clippers, cape, dye etc. Friends, family or work mates are usually happy to help.

Alternatively, you can go to a hairdresser or barber and ask them to support your Shave.

Can I donate my hair to be made into a wig?
add remove

If your hair meets certain criteria, you can send it to Freedom Wigs based in Dunedin, who use donated hair to make wigs. They will make a donation back to your shave page, too! 

You can find out more about the criteria and where to send your hair through our 'Donating Your Hair' information sheet, located on our resources page here.

Is there an age limit?
add remove

Taking part is a personal choice that should be made by an individual in agreement with parents/caregivers and whānau. If you are under 18 years of age, you will need your parent's/caregiver's consent.

What should I do if I receive an inappropriate comment or message on my donation page?
add remove

We encourage all participants to follow safe online practices when sharing their fundraising page. Avoid sharing personal information such as your home address, phone number, passwords, or financial details.

If you receive any inappropriate, offensive, or concerning comments on your fundraising page please contact the Shave for a Cure team as soon as possible at
0800 15 15 10 or  shaveforacure@bloodcancer.org.nz

Why isn’t my donation showing?
add remove

If you donated on the website using a credit card and your donation isn’t visible, please let us know. If you donated via direct credit, your donation will appear on the site once we have received it either into our bank account (using your reference number), or passed on to us from your Shavee.

Donations over $5 are tax-deductible.

Can people donate from outside 
of New Zealand?
add remove

Yes. Our website is set up to accept international payments

Where does the money go?
add remove

Blood Cancer NZ is not a government organisation and relies on the generosity of our donors for fundraising. Your efforts are vital to help us continue to provide and grow our services.

These services include supporting patients and their families across the country, providing information and education sessions, support and funding for research, raising awareness about the diseases and advocating on behalf of patients. 

How long will my fundraising
page stay active?
add remove

Your fundraising page will stay active for the calendar year (or until your shave date), as Shave for a Cure is a year-round campaign. Don't worry, as your profile will not be archived before your shave date.

If you would like us to archive your fundraising page for any reason, please get in touch with our friendly team and we can assist you with this by emailing shave@bloodcaner.org.nz

How do I deposit cash donations 
I’ve collected?
add remove

You can use your credit card through your fundraising page.

You can also deposit your cash donations at any branch of the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ). Please include your name on the bank deposit and email us the amount and the link to your fundraising page. We will load the funds against your page once they are received.

Our bank account details:

(Account name must be exactly as written)
Blood Cancer NZ
Account number: 02 - 0256 - 0141907 - 04
Reference: Name of Shavee or Group

Do I need a banking reference number?
add remove

No, you don't - your name is how we will identify you.

Where can I find information about prizes?
add remove

Head over to our prizes page for more information!