White Ribbon Ride roars into Napier and Hastings

Dozens of motorbikes are on their way to the region as part of the White Ribbon Ride which aims to bring a message of respect and stopping violence towards women. Photo/supplied.

The annual White Ribbon Ride will see 30 motorbikes rev their way through Napier and Hastings today, bringing an important message along for the ride - respect.

White Ribbon Rider and ambassador Aaron Morrison said Sunday's trip from Paeroa through Huntly, Cambridge, Te Awamutu, and Taupo yesterday had been wonderful.

"People have been amazing and the message has been well received," he said.

Despite the riders' generally rugged and tough-looking exterior, their message is one of respect and stopping violence towards women.

Mr Morrison said the word respect encompassed everything.

"If you have self-respect, then you will give respect to those around you and be a better person."

They believe the starting point for putting things right is when fathers help their sons develop respectful behaviour in their relationships.

"All the stats show fathers are more likely to talk to their daughters about the risks of sexual violence and consent. They are far less likely to talk to their sons about respectful relationships and respectful sexual relationships. It is those ongoing talks that strengthen behaviour.

"People who don't think this is an important message may be part of the problem. We have seen in recent times high-profile Hollywood producers in the spotlight for violent and abusive sexual behaviour towards women. It happens at all levels of society."

Mr Morrison said men needed to step outside the stereotypical thinking that reinforced negative behaviour. He said developing values and empathy gave men better relationships, happiness and health.

Detective Sergeant Darren Pritchard said members from the police, fire service and corrections department, as well as Napier Mayor Bill Dalton, would be involved.

"All planning is in place and we are looking forward to a good turnout tomorrow, spreading the message of White Ribbon and what it means."

The contingent will go to Maraenui Bilingual School, followed by Napier Soundshell.

In Hastings, the ride wil split to visit Flaxmere School, Ebbett Park School, Hasting Boxing Academy, before heading to Te Waireka Youth Rehabilitation Service in Otane.

Flaxmere School principal and Hawke's Bay Primary Principals Association president Robyn Isaacson said the White Ribbon ride had stopped off at the school previously.

"They will come and speak to the students and staff about the cause and bring along their bikes. It is great fun for the children."

The White Ribbon Ride ends in Rotorua on Saturday.

EVENT INFORMATION:

NAPIER EVENTS
10.30-11.30am
Maraenui Bilingual School
Bright Cres, Maraenui

11.45-12.30am
Napier Soundshell
70 Marine Parade
(End of Emerson St).

HASTINGS EVENTS
1.20pm-2.20pm
Flaxmere School,
20 Henderson Rd

1.30pm-2.30pm
Ebbett Park School, Wall Rd

4pm-4.30pm
Hasting Boxing Academy
108 Eastbourne St East
Otane

OTANE EVENT
5.15pm-9.30pm
Te Waireka Youth Rehabilitation Service
58 White Rd