Easter egg motorbike run spreads joy

Feel the vibrations rumble beneath your feet as hundreds of motorbikes roar through Western Bay streets this Sunday to spread Easter cheer.
More than 500 motorbikes will parade from Mount Maunganui and cruise to Tauranga Hospital in the Tauranga Ulysses Motorcycle club's annual Easter Egg and Toy Run.
The club is hosting its 21st run to raise money and awareness for the TrustPower TECT rescue helicopter. Club members will deliver Easter eggs and toys to those staying in the children's ward.
Club president Kevin Beagley welcomed anyone with a motorbike to take part. There is no need to register, just turn up on the day.
Mr Beagley said this year's event had attracted bikers from Tauranga, Auckland, Hamilton and beyond. He also knew of one man coming from Napier to take part.
"It's such a reward to be able to contribute to society in a way that benefits others while doing what we enjoy," Mr Beagley said.
"At this time and on other special days, there's nothing worse than being stuck in the hospital, so this is a way for us to bring a bit of cheer into the children's and their families lives, and to the community as well."
Participants are asked to bring an Easter egg or soft toy for donation.
The motorbikes will meet at Nikau Crescent, Mount Maunganui, from 10am. At midday, the group will depart and travel through downtown Mount Maunganui, along Marine Parade, Oceanbeach Rd, down Girven Rd and through the Te Maunga roundabout. They will travel along the Maungatapu causeway, through the Welcome Bay roundabout, through Poiki and Oropi roundabouts to Barkes Corner. From here they will go down Cameron Rd before ending at Tauranga Hospital.
Mr Beagley said scooters were also eligible to take part.
The public are invited to view the bikes at Nikau Crescent from 10am or at 12.45pm behind the hospital in the carpark on Clark St.
WHEN AND WHERE
What: Tauranga Ulysses Motorcycle Club annual Easter Egg and Toy Run.
Where: Riding from Nikau Crescent to the hospital.
When: Sunday.
Time: 10am onward.
Cost: Free