Blair Tuke backs melanoma message

Blair Tuke, pictured with longstanding sailing mate Peter Burling, after the pair helped Emirates Team New Zealand bring the America's Cup back to New Zealand, reminded local sportsphiles to look after and monitor their skin this summer. Photo / Ricardo Pinto

Blair Tuke spends a lot of time out in the sun each day.

Having won gold at last year's Rio Olympics with Peter Burling before helping Emirates Team New Zealand bring the America's Cup back, Tuke is also an ambassador for Melanoma New Zealand where he encourages everyone to look after and monitor their skin.

"Most of us recognise the fact New Zealand has the highest incidence rate of melanoma in the world, so we all need to be alert to make sure all of us understand the dangers and take care to avoid too much sun, and regularly check our skin," Tuke said.

"More than 4500 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year and Melanoma New Zealand needs your help to keep this work going."

Most of us recognise the fact New Zealand has the highest incidence rate of melanoma in the world, so we all need to be alert to make sure all of us understand the dangers"

America's Cup champion sailor Blair Tuke

He said MNZ works with the power of communities to make a difference to the incidence and impact of melanoma in New Zealand with a vision to achieve zero deaths from melanoma, which the organisation believes is achievable.

MNZ also provides information and support to those affected by melanoma and their families, and advocates for world-class treatments.

"I am sure you were right behind Emirates Team New Zealand over the past few months, cheering on the team to bring home the Cup," Tuke said.

"Please also get behind Melanoma New Zealand and make a donation to ensure all New Zealanders get the message and help us to save lives."

For more information and to make a donation, go to the Melanoma New Zealand website.