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Pushing Limits, Changing Lives: Running for I Am Hope

Blake Schimanski

RUNNING THE LENGTH OF AOTEAROA FOR MENTAL HEALTH

Hi! My name is Blake Schimanski, and I’m a 24-year-old electrician from Auckland.

In April 2025, I’m taking on my biggest challenge yet—running 2011km from Bluff to Cape Reinga to raise $100,000 for I Am Hope. This cause is deeply personal to me, and I need your support to make it happen!

UNTIL Blake starts his epic journey running the length of Aotearoa

This isn’t just about the run—it’s about raising awareness and funds for I Am Hope, a mental health charity close to my heart.

In 2018, I lost a good mate to suicide. Since then, I have dedicated myself to supporting mental health initiatives by taking on endurance challenges, including marathons and ultra marathons. Now, I’m aiming higher than ever, with a goal of raising $100,000 to support this incredible cause.

Join me on this journey

Every step I take is for a better future in mental health.
Let’s make a difference together.

Running the length of Aotearoa from Bluff to Cape Reinga

That’s over 2011kms, all for I AM HOPE - rain, hail or shine.

FOLLOW BLAKE'S JOURNEY - LIVE

Starting Monday 31st March at 5am - follow Blake's journey in support of I AM HOPE - running the length of New Zealand.

This isn’t just about breaking boundaries—it’s about making a difference.

raising $100,000 for I Am Hope.

Join me on this journey. Every step I take is for a better future in mental health. Let’s make a difference together.

BECOME A SPONSOR

This run isn’t possible without amazing supporters. I’m looking for businesses and individuals to help with essentials like:

• Support Vehicles & Accommodation
•  Food & Nutrition
• Running Gear & Shoes
• Physiotherapy & Recovery

Your brand can be part of this journey!

Past & Upcoming Challenges

I’ve been training for years, completing ultra marathons and endurance events, including:

• Taupo 100km Ultra
• Kings Backyard Ultra (170km in 25hrs)
• Sydney Ultra Marathon (3rd Place)

Next up: Tarawera 100 Mile Ultra & Running the Length of Aotearoa

FOLLOW MY JOURNEY

Stay updated on training, progress, and the run itself!

Blake Schimanski - Run Aotearoa

Thank you to our sponsors

Thank you to our SUPPORTERS

We couldn’t have come this far without the amazing support of our sponsors — and while there’s still a fair way to go, we’re feeling energised and hopeful!

A huge shoutout to the incredible people below who have backed Blake on his journey running the length of Aotearoa in support of I AM HOPE. The community spirit and support along the way has been nothing short of inspiring — we’re beyond grateful. 💛

  • Jacqui Whyte (Hemi Whyte Cup)

  • Jimmy McInally

  • Mark Gardiner (Action Indoor Sports)

  • Ataraiti Whyte

  • Glenn Harris

  • Grant Watt

  • Adventure Lodge, National Park

  • Monique (Big Foot Podiatry)

  • Crossroads Clinton

  • Chrissy @ Moorhouse Osteopathic Centre, Christchurch

  • Paul and Fiona Schimanski

  • Ryan Doherty (Fullers Great Sights Bay of Islands)

  • Carmen Holmes (Piggy Bar Howick)

  • Jake Howard (Resolve Fight Systems)

  • Trent Davis

  • Shnack Protein Drink

  • Monica Russell (Float Culture)

  • Mike @ Oamaru Physiotherapy Clinic

  • Sporting Goods Specialists 

  • Rowan Cann

  • Lara and Kev (The Red Boats)

  • Rachel Bray (Ador Beauty Therapy) 

  • Kim Schimanski

  • Awastone Riverside Haven

  • Kerry Oxenham

  • Bumper Bar NZ

  • Phoenix Motel Temuka

Thank you for your support, together we can make a real impact!