Oamaru's second Relay for Life is expected to attract more people than the first in 2011, when up to 1000 people were at times on Centennial Park.
The Cancer Society's big national fundraising event was first held in Oamaru two years ago, raising about $90,000, most of which went to the North Otago branch.
Organiser Kate Allan is expecting that amount to be exceeded this year.
There are 45 teams this year, many with more participants in them than two years ago.
''I've been amazed at the fundraising this year, including one girl who plans to shave her head during the relay,'' Ms Allan said.
Teams will start setting up on Friday afternoon, and have to be ready by 10.30am on Saturday for the noon start of the 24-hour event.
The relay starts with a lap of honour by cancer survivors then teams start their 24-hour marathon.
Live entertainment has been arranged for Saturday night, with each team responsible for their own catering and accommodation.
In the first event, the back fields at Centennial Park became a tent and caravan city, with teams set up around the relay circuit.
Again, most of the proceeds raised would go to North Otago Cancer Society, with a small portion to research and to maintain Kowhai House in Dunedin, which is used by out-of-town patients and families.
Entry to watch the relay is free, with people encouraged to go along and give their support.
