SPCA’s most delicious fundraising event is back in 2025, and it’s piping hot with purpose.

Cupcake Day will take place on Wednesday, October 29, and New Zealanders everywhere are invited to bake, eat and raise dough for a great cause.

“This day isn’t just for the apron-clad heroes,” SPCA events manager Elinor Birch said.

“If you’d rather indulge than bake, we still need you. Every cupcake devoured helps deliver care and compassion to animals who need it most.”

Anyone keen to join the fun can register and create their own fundraising page on the official Cupcake Day website. Registrations are now open.

Even though the official Cupcake Day is October 29, you’re free to hold your event whenever it suits your schedule before Friday, November 14.

SPCA’s website offers recipes, baking tips and dog-friendly “pupcakes” so no one gets left out.

Last year, more than 30,000 animals came through SPCA’s doors, many requiring urgent care and permanent homes. Your sweet support helps turn their stories around.

When it comes to the “great debate” - cupcake vs muffin, SPCA only leans one way.

“Let’s settle this once and for all. If there’s icing on top, it’s a cupcake. That’s my view and I’m sticking to it,“ Birch said.

This year, SPCA’s Cupcake Day is serving up more than delicious treats – fundraisers can also earn exciting rewards and prizes.

From Cupcake Day pins, tea towels, and limited-edition aprons, through to the chance to win a KitchenAid Stand Mixer, a baker’s dream hamper from Milly’s Kitchen, or an office morning tea from Bluebells Cakery, there’s plenty to inspire Kiwis to bake for animals in need.

“The true winners are the animals. Cupcake Day is powered by your generosity, and that makes a world of difference to them, and to us.”

So ready, your oven mitts, gather your sweet-toothed squad, and register today.