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Description: Local historians weekly "Back Issues" article in the Manawatū Standard. Telethon was a 24-hour live television spectacular designed to raise money for charitable causes. It originated in the United States, but New Zealand put a typically Kiwi spin on the event. First held in 1975, local performers, amateur and professional were joined by international stars, who entertained New Zealand to raise money for charity. Groups of people from schools, clubs, and pubs, contributed cash and cheques, often in an oversized format, to add to the pledged totals on the day of the event.

Telethon 1981 was held on 27 June 1981 and raised funds for the International Year of Disabled Persons.
The main event in Palmerston North was held at the Rainbow Stadium and attracted a number of national and international celebrities.