Fundraising target hits $10,000
THE unique Manawatu Gorge Track and Tunnel Walk is to be held on May 4 for the 20th year in a row.
Over the years about 20,000 people have stepped out to take on the 8km walk along the railway line and through the tunnels of the Manawatu Gorge, all for a good cause.
This year Woodville Lions, who have organised the event since the outset, aims to donate $10,000 from the proceeds to Arohanui Hospice for the purchase of equipment needed for specific patient requirements.
The walk is regarded as a unique opportunity to walk a working railway line with 15 bridges and two long tunnels to negotiate.
It takes about two to two and a half hours walking east to west through the gorge and has become a draw card for walkers from all over the southern North Island and points far beyond, including overseas tourists who happen to be in Tararua when the walk is held.
Organisers say being a flat walk it appeals to all ages and many adults include their children and grandchildren on the walk.
The minimum age for taking part is 10 years.
Prior to setting out walkers meet in the marshalling area at Ashhurst Domain at the western end of the gorge and are then bussed to the lime works at the Woodville end where the walk starts.
Moderate fitness and sturdy footwear, preferably boots, are essential as is a strong torch. The tunnels are extremely dark and small torches do not give off enough light for safety.
Wet weather gear is recommended and those on the walk are advised to have a bottle of water with them.
At the end of the walk - back at Ashhurst Domain - there is a user-pays barbecue and drinks are available.
Over the years proceeds from the Track & Tunnel Walk have topped $262,000 and are dedicated to cancer care and other community projects.
The ticket price to go on the walk is $25 with no gate sales.
Tickets need to be booked because the popularity of the walk is such that tickets are normally sold out within days of release to outlets.
Buses depart for the lime works at 9am, 9.45am and 10.30am.
Tickets are available from: iSites at Tararua (Woodville) Phone 06 376 0217 or 0800 827 278 and phone bookings are accepted.