Countdown to City to Surf begins

The countdown to The Star's annual City to Surf fun run is back on.

The event will be held over a 12 km course on Sunday March 26, starting in the Cathedral Square and ending at Queen Elizabeth II Park.

The official launch took place on Wednesday at Iconic bar in the central city. With just 10 weeks to go, organisers were expecting a huge turnout.

Event co-ordinator Rachel Batty said the City to Surf had been an important part of Christchurch's event calendar for 32 years.

"The numbers go up every year and we are probably expecting close to 15,000 this year. It's amazing when you're in the Square at the start. It's a sea of people?it's amazing," she said.

This year proceeds would be donated to the Orana Wildlife Trust for conservation work with endangered native birds.

Miss Batty said the City to Surf was for everyone ? from professional athletes to families wanting an entertaining day.

"It's a fun event. You can walk or crawl. It's just a fun and relaxing day."

Orana Park chief executive officer Lynn Anderson said the proceeds went to a good cause.

"We're absolutely delighted. As a charitable trust were always seeking funds to further conservation works so it's just a wonderful help."

Last year over $12,000 was raised for the telephone counselling service Lifeline.

Registration packs are $8 and are available from The Star, Les Mills, The Athletes Foot and any branch of the Bank of New Zealand.

Official tee-shirts are available for $20.