They may ride big, noisy motorcycles and look tough ... but these biker boys are all about love.
The White Ribbon Riders are on the tail-end of their annual nationwide tour spreading the word about love and respect to promote an end to violence towards women.
They'll be roaring into Fraser Cove today at 5.30pm and the community is invited to check out the bikes and enjoy a family event. The nine-day motorcycle ride is a key White Ribbon project organised by the Families Commission to encourage men to take action and end violence towards women. This year, the riders will have messages about non-physical violence.
"Non-physical violence can leave scars which no one can see, and that affect your whole personality," says White Ribbon campaign manager Rob McCann. "It's hard to comprehend that violence can have that effect, but women will tell you, bruises and bones can heal while the effects of fear can last a lifetime."
Every year, a core group of riders including the Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club, gets together for the tour - which visits nearly 90 places a tour including schools and prisons.
Some former perpetrators come too and speak of their experiences. Local riders are invited to tag along (check website for schedule).
Different events are held at each place.
In Tauranga, the bikers visit Tauranga Intermediate School, then Greerton before invading Fraser Cove at 5.30pm, where there will be a family carnival atmosphere with face painting, a bouncy castle, a sausage sizzle and more.
