24 October 2025 marked World Polio Day — a global initiative led by Rotary International to raise awareness and support the ongoing fight to end polio.

Although New Zealand has been polio-free for decades thanks to vaccination, many Kiwis continue to live with its late effects today. At cann Charitable Trust, we’re proud to stand alongside Rotary and health organisations worldwide in recognising both the progress made and the people still impacted.

Communities turned Aotearoa purple

Landmarks and community spaces across the country lit up purple — the colour symbolising the End Polio Now campaign. The colour had special significance during polio immunisation campaigns, children’s fingers were dipped in purple dye to show that they’d received their vaccine. This year’s participating sites included:

  • Aotea Centre, Auckland – illuminated inside and out in vibrant purple.
  • Maggie’s Mart, Auckland – filled its window with purple treasures and photos of people affected by polio. They shared that the display often sparks conversations about polio’s lasting impact. The idea began years ago, inspired by a volunteer who lives with the impact of polio.
  • Summerset notice board, Hamilton
  • Christchurch Gallery
  • University of Otago Clock Tower, Dunedin
  • Gisborne Clock Tower
  • Tom Parker Fountain, Napier
  • Palmerston North Square Clock Tower
  • QE Health Noticeboard, Rotorua
  • Fantail Sculpture, Upper Hutt
The Aotea Centre lights up in purple, joining cities worldwide to mark World Polio Day.
The Upper Hutt Fantail sculpture illuminated in purple for World Polio Day.

Local events bringing people together

Across the regions, communities marked the day in creative ways. In Auckland, Waikato and Invercargill, gatherings featured purple-themed treats, including gorgeous cupcakes and a spectacular vaccine-themed cake.  While in Dunedin people enjoyed a purple ice-cream picnic, celebrating progress and shared commitment to ending polio.

Communities across Aotearoa came together with creativity, colour, and connection to mark World Polio Day 2025.

Why World Polio Day still matters

For those living with the late effects of polio, the legacy of the virus continues to affect mobility, fatigue, and daily life. Globally, polio remains endemic in a few countries, and sustained vaccination campaigns are essential to ensure eradication for future generations.

cann provides access to allied-health assessments, rehabilitation, and equipment funding to support independence and wellbeing. Together, we’re helping people live to their potential — and keeping the story of polio visible, so that it is never forgotten.