Brainy Beanies Exhibition Comes To Christchurch In Support Of Brain Tumour Awareness Month
Running from 20–25 May, with a public launch on Monday 19 May at 6:00 PM, the exhibition features a stunning collection of more than 800 handcrafted beanies—all created and donated by generous crafters from across Aotearoa. Each beanie is available for purchase, with 100% of proceeds directly supporting New Zealanders affected by brain tumours.
Launched in Waikato in 2021, Brainy Beanies has grown into a powerful symbol of compassion, creativity, and community.
The talented artists behind Brainy Beanies are everyday Kiwis with extraordinary hearts—individuals and knitting groups from all over New Zealand who pour love and care into every stitch. Each beanie is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of compassion, connection, and community support.
Many of these crafters have a personal connection to brain tumours—they may have lost a loved one, supported a friend through their diagnosis, or even faced their own journey with a brain tumour. For them, creating these beanies is a deeply personal way to honour, remember, and give back. Others are dedicated makers who simply want to use their skills for good, contributing to a cause that brings warmth and hope to those in need.
Every beanie carries the signature Brainy Beanie label, reminding wearers they are connected to a nationwide network of care.
"This initiative is about more than fundraising—it's about connection," says Sarah Verran, Chief Executive of Brain Tumour Support NZ. 'Each beanie is created with love by someone who cares, and when you wear one, you become part of a bigger story—one of empathy, strength, and solidarity.'
Visitors to the exhibition will be immersed in a vibrant display where every beanie tells its own story.Funds raised will go toward Brain Tumour Support NZ's vital work, including the provision of Brain Box care packages for newly diagnosed patients and ongoing support services for individuals and whānau navigating the complexities of brain tumour diagnosis and treatment.
Event Details:
Brainy Beanies Exhibition Launch
Pūmanawa Community Exhibition Space, 2 Worcester Boulevard
Monday 19 May
6:00 – 7:30 PM- open to the public, all welcome
Exhibition Open: 20–25 May
Admission is free – all are welcome!
This marks the first time Brainy Beanies comes to Christchurch, offering locals a chance to be part of this heartwarming movement. By attending, visitors don't just witness a celebration of craftsmanship and community—they become part of a cause that brings comfort, connection, and support to those facing the challenges of a brain tumour across New Zealand
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