"Hongi celebrates the breath of life and represents sharing hands, hearts and minds - what better way to support Cure Kids and the health of Kiwi kids than through a beautiful celebration of life like hongi.
"This year's campaign has been stronger than ever. It really is a national endeavour and the funds raised will go to vital child health research that will benefit not only our children, but their children and grandchildren," Ms Lee says.
Donations could also be made during tonight's Bledisloe Cup match, by supporters texting in their favourite player's name, which would donate $3 to the campaign.
The money raised would fund research into better treatments for a wide range of childhood illnesses, including cot death (SUDI), stillbirth, leukaemia, rheumatic heart disease, asthma, inherited heart conditions and mental health conditions.
People could also still donate by going to www.rednoseday.co.nz or text NOSE to 933 to make an automatic $3 donation.