Top Fundraiser Merch Ideas in Walkathons & Fun Runs From Our Experts
In New Zealand, walkathones, fun runs, and community challenges are well loved by the people. The reason behind this is because of the connection and shared purpose behind events like these.Whether it’s raising funds for a local school, supporting a national health charity, or rallying the community around a shared goal, the right merchandise can transform an event from “just another run” into a meaningful movement.
As one of New Zealand’s trusted promotional product suppliers, our team at Cubic Promote has worked with countless fundraisers and community groups. We’ve seen first-hand how smart merchandise choices can lift participation rates, boost fundraising totals, and keep your cause front of mind long after race day.
Why Merchandise Matters More Than You Think
Merchandise isn’t just an afterthought — it’s part of the event strategy.
- Incentivise registrations: A good-quality branded tee or water bottle makes signing up feel like a no-brainer.
- Create visibility: Every cap, bag, or medal becomes a walking (or running) advertisement for your cause.
- Boost fundraising totals: Selling extra items on top of entry fees can significantly increase donations.
Across New Zealand, fun runs and walkathons are a fundraising favourite. Consider events like Round the Bays Auckland, which has evolved into one of the country’s largest community runs. Many of these events use merch to create identity and belonging among thousands of participants.
We also see charitable partners like Sweet Louise use merchandise strategically to engage donors and runners in campaigns tied to fun runs around Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
High-Impact Merch Ideas for Fundraisers
The best merchandise isn’t just cute — it’s useful, memorable, and designed to move.
Here’s a practical comparison of popular merch items for walkathons and fun runs:
| Merchandise Item | Why It Works | Tips from Our Experts |
|---|---|---|
| Branded T-shirts | A classic crowd favourite. Encourages sign-ups and creates a sense of unity. | Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabric. We recommend offering unisex and women’s cuts. |
| Reusable water bottles | Perfect for hydration during and after the event. | BPA-free bottles are a must. Add event year + logo for collectibility. |
| Branded drawstring bags | Functional and great for giveaways. | Keep them lightweight to save costs. |
| Custom caps / visors | Kiwi summers are hot — sun-smart merch is always a hit. | Use UPF-rated materials where possible. |
| Medals & finisher charms | People love keepsakes. It’s about pride and memory. | Include event name + date for a personal touch. |
| Wristbands & armbands | Low-cost items that work as upsells or freebies. | Excellent for mass participation events. |
| Reflective gear or LED bands | Adds value for early-morning or evening runs. | Great safety angle — parents love this for kids’ events. |
???? “Our merchandising team often recommends bundling T-shirts and bottles — it creates better perceived value and can increase event-day sales by up to 35%,” says a Cubic Promote merch specialist.
???? Pricing & Upsell Strategy
To maximise the value of your merchandise, pricing is key. You don’t want to scare off participants, but you also don’t want to leave money on the table.
| Tier | Suggested Markup | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-included item (e.g. T-shirt) | 30–50% | Keeps registration attractive and covers cost |
| Upsell merch (caps, bottles) | 60–100% | Higher perceived value for those who want extras |
| Premium or commemorative items | 100%+ | Perfect for limited edition releases |
???? Pro tip from our team: use bundles like “$25 for a tee + cap + wristband” instead of selling items individually. People love feeling like they’re getting a deal.
How to Choose the Perfect Products
With our experience working with organisers, here are some tips we can share:
- Always go for items that participants will actually use during or after the event.
- By working with NZ suppliers, you’ll enjoy faster turnaround times and fewer shipping headaches.
- A durable bottle or tee will travel far and keep promoting your cause for months.
- Offer a free or included item plus premium upgrades.
- Limited-edition designs tied to the event date create a sense of belonging and FOMO.
Our in-house branding team can help match the right product with your fundraising goals — from eco-friendly drinkware to reflective event gear.
Final Tips From Our Experts
- Launch merch pre-orders early — early bird sales help fund production costs.
- Offer bundles — participants are more likely to buy multiple items at once.
- Highlight impact — make it clear that proceeds go directly to the cause.
- Create a merch station at the event with great signage and volunteer sellers.
- Use visuals — people are more likely to buy what they can see and touch.
The right merchandise can turn a good fundraiser into a great one. It fuels participation, spreads your message, and raises more money for the cause. ???? Talk to our merch experts today about your upcoming fundraiser. We’ll help you design products that people will actually want to wear, use, and keep.
