The Ovarian Cancer Foundation New Zealand’s Long Lunch at the JW Marriott Auckland on 3 October 2025 was an unforgettable afternoon, full of connection, conversation, and contribution
The event was the brainchild of Malcolm MacLeod, and was created to raise funds for ovarian cancer research. Malcolm was inspired to take action after his wife’s diagnosis, initially planning the Long Lunch as a volunteer before later joining the OCFNZ Board as a trustee. A highlight of the afternoon was Malcolm’s reading from a book he’s written about their experiences. It was an authentic, and lighthearted reflection on the day to day reality of facing ovarian cancer as a family.
Over 170 people turned up ready to make a difference. There were tears, laughter, and some very competitive bidding, with MC Mary Lambie and auctioneer Shane Cortese keeping the energy high from start to finish.
One of the most memorable moments came when Erin Bassett, a woman living with low-grade serous ovarian cancer, received a standing ovation after sharing her story during a panel discussion with researcher Dr Alicia Didsbury and medical oncologist Dr Rosalie Stevens. Erin’s honesty and courage left many in the room visibly moved as she spoke about the years of misdiagnoses, the devastating impact of treatment that left her in menopause and infertile, and the ongoing uncertainty of living with a cancer that has a high recurrence rate.
Erin shared, “It was such an honour and privilege to be involved in the OCFNZ Long Lunch and share my story. It was one of the most powerful moments of my life. To have the opportunity to speak out, raise awareness, and fight for more research funding felt like turning pain into purpose, for myself, and for every woman impacted by this disease.”
The generosity in the room was extraordinary, with some auction items selling for up to $13,000. In total, the event raised over $90,000 through live and silent auctions and donations, an incredible result that will directly support ovarian cancer research. OCFNZ currently funds one $80,000 grant per year along with other research funding but aims to double that to two $80,000 grants in 2026.
“It was incredible to see so many people come together to support ovarian cancer research. Giving space to whānau and lived experience voices, like Erin’s, made a powerful case for the importance of research in improving outcomes for women and their families.” — Liz Pennington, General Manager, OCFNZ
Guests also heard from family members Mark and Daniel Scott, who spoke movingly in memory of their late wife and mum Coral , and enjoyed a special gin which had been created by Coral
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, donated, or bid, and to the generous donors of our live auction items:
- Fiji Airways, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay and Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort,
- Jonathan Wallis and Grant Ludemann,
- Hon. David Seymour MP,
- Nicky Pellegrino,
- Sir John Key,
- Dominion Construction Limited and Cherokee Property Group Limited,
- Kumeu River Wines and Archibald & Shorter North Shore,
- Sir Russell and Jenny Coutts.
And finally, an extra special thank you to Stella Coleman, who volunteered countless hours to manage the event for OCFNZ. Her dedication and hard work helped make the Long Lunch such a remarkable success.
The success of our inaugural long lunch is already inspiring future events, we look forward to inviting you to take part in the future.
