Assisting in Queenstown was former Winter Olympic alpine skier Mark Vryenhoek, who competed in the slalom and giant slalom at the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympics.
The Queenstown event was one of 32 fun run/walks across New Zealand on Sunday, including in Wanaka, with a total of almost 10,000 participants nation-wide.
Jennian Homes chief operating officer Aidan Jury said heart disease was the number one cause of death for New Zealand women, claiming the lives of more than 55 women a week.
``It is fantastic to see so many people here in Queenstown, and across the country, coming together ... to show support for the women we love.
``It's extra special to see men embrace the event and support the women in their lives, cheering them on from the sidelines or even lacing up their running shoes and joining in.
``Every bit counts towards keeping more families together, so we thank everyone in Queenstown for helping us start Mother's Day in a unique, yet symbolic, way,'' he said.
