Rotorua 12-year-old shaving for a cure

Isaac after shaving his head. Photo/Supplied

Isaac Kleine, who is just 12 years old, has shaved his head to raise money for cancer research.

His father, Barry Kleine, said Isaac made the decision to fundraise for Shave for a Cure on his own.

Isaac said he just wanted to do something to help people with cancer.

"My nana had a type of cancer a long time ago and she was very lucky and was able to get rid of it, but many people don't and suffer a lot," he said.

"I felt sad for the people who have to go through the pain of it all. When I saw the Shave for a Cure I thought that would be a great way to help."

Isaac grew his hair for most of the year before shaving it off. Photo/Supplied

The Year 7 student at Rotorua Intermediate School said although he was colder post-shave, he raised $48 for Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand.

Mr Kleine said the family was very proud of Isaac.

Major Shave for a Cure events are held during "Shave Week" in March each year, but individuals could shave and raise money at any time.

The money raised will go towards support services for patients and cancer research.

Donations can be made at www.leukaemia.org.nz