Have you ever wondered why daffodils are the symbol of the Cancer Society of New Zealand’s major fundraiser?

According to the society, the iconic flower is recognised around the world as a symbol of hope for people impacted by cancer.

Daffodils mark the return of spring and new life, the society said.

“Bringing light after cold, dark winter days and the hope of a new beginning, it has become a symbol for people experiencing the winter of cancer diagnosis and treatment, finding hope of a new life ahead.”

According to the society, the daffodil was first used in Toronto, Canada, in the 1950s during volunteer-organised coffee mornings to raise money for cancer awareness and research. Guests were given a daffodil as thanks for their support.

The daffodil eventually replaced the sword, which had been the society’s emblem since its establishment in 1929.

Daffodil Day was introduced as the society’s major street appeal in 1990, supported by principal sponsor, ANZ.

The work to sell daffodils begins well before August, the society’s major fundraising month.

Daffodils growing in the Yatton Park Memory Meadow.

Daffodil bulbs need to be planted when the soil has cooled – in most parts of New Zealand this coincides with Easter.

The society said it sources hundreds of thousands of fresh daffodils through a nationwide network of commercial flower growers and dedicated local volunteers.

The society needs more than 600,000 fresh daffodils for each Daffodil Day. More than 50 daffodil farms are involved with Daffodil Day, with more than 40 located in the Wairarapa.

“Volunteer enthusiasm has always been a key part of Daffodil Days success. From the first group of Feilding volunteers who picked daffodils from local paddocks to exchange for a donation, to the thousands who now take part every year over the country on the last Friday in August. [An estimated] 11,000 amazing volunteers give us a hand on Daffodil Day,” the society said.