Birthday will just roll on by

MARTIN DE RUYTER/The Nelson Mail

ON THE ROAD: Tomo Chisnall will spend his birthday on a skateboard, somewhere.

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Tomo Chisnall will spend his birthday on a skateboard, somewhere.

The 19-year-old from Nelson is skateboarding the length of New Zealand on his longboard to raise money for organisations that support people with cancer.

During his travels, on Christmas Eve, he will turn 20. But he said it didn't bother him that he wouldn't be at home with his family and friends to celebrate.

Two years ago his best friend, Marcus, died from the disease and Mr Chisnall is determined to do all he can to help other sufferers.

He has taken time off from his job as a wood-cutter and left Northland on November 16, reaching Hamilton on Thursday – albeit with very sore feet.

"I have five big blisters coming up on the foot I use to push with and my legs are very tired," he said. "But it is not about me ... It is about [Marcus] and those others who have cancer."

- Fairfax