All Black Great Makes Final of Celebrity Treasure Island

All Black legend Christian Cullen (photo courtesy of TVNZ)

The brain tumour community were on the edge of their seats watching the final episode of Celebrity Treasure Island 2024 last week as All Black legend Christian Cullen lined up for a chance at winning $100,000 for Brain Tumour Support NZ.

The final was the climax of 14 episodes of exhilarating competition, where the contestants showed skill, stamina, sneaky alliances and ate lots of rice and beans. Congratulations to JP Foliaki (representing Childfund - Water Run) on winning the major prize, and to James Rolleston (representing Brake NZ) for also making the final.

Christian Cullen is a champion and one of NZ's true sporting legends. He looked drained and a little deflated at the conclusion of the final treasure hunt, but we hope he has had a chance to reflect on the huge difference he has made by raising awareness for our charity, and brain tumours in general. Several times throughout the show, and in associated media stories, Cully talked about the loss of his brother-in-law Brook to brain cancer two years ago, and the huge impact that had on him and his whānau.

This Saturday marks the start of International Brain Tumour Awareness Week 2024 (26 October to 2 November). Everything starts with awareness - without awareness no money will be spent on research, no resources will be allocated to better treatments, and nothing will happen to improve outcomes for patients.

Brain Tumour Support NZ chair, Chris Tse, said: “By going on CTI and opening up about his family's struggle with brain cancer, Christian Cullen has given a huge boost to our Awareness Week campaign. What a champion. What a legend. Thanks Cully.”