Hundreds make up a white ribbon at the Rotorua Village Green to launch the protest ride against violence towards women and children. Photo/Stephen Parker.
Hundreds make up a white ribbon at the Rotorua Village Green to launch the protest ride against violence towards women and children. Photo/Stephen Parker.
More than 60 motorcycle riders from throughout the country gathered in Rotorua to make a stand objecting to violence against women.
They joined hundreds who took part in the White Ribbon Ride launch which was held at the Village Green on Saturday.
Hakopa Paul of Ngati Pikiao was part ofthe local organising team and hosted the leaders of the three motorcycle groups supporting the event and the message behind it. The White Ribbon Riders included the Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club, Maori group Te Ahi Kikoha and christian riders The Redeemers.
"They took part because of the kaupapa (principle) of White Ribbon, stopping violence towards women," Mr Paul said.
"Violence is happening all around New Zealand and we're making a stand against that."
Mr Paul said the meaning behind the day also hit home for many of the riders.
"Many have come from that background and have been perpetrators themselves of violence but have been able to change their lives, and are saying men need to stand up and accept responsibility."
The motorcyclists rode from Taheke Marae near Okere Falls to the Village Green then to Taupo. Mr Paul said this was the start of the national ride throughout the North Island meeting up in Auckland in two weeks for White Ribbon Day.
