Motorbike riders raise thousands for local RSAs in Rides of Respect

Ride organiser Theresa Sands was happy to give Clubs Hastings member Dave Moat a rundown on some of the bikes. Photo / Warren Buckland

It was a great day for a ride and a great day to give.

Which effectively summed up Sunday for the Hawke's Bay branch of the Social Cruizers NZ club and the scores of riders they brought together for the annual Ride of Respect, which is traditionally staged just before Anzac Day.

It is about respect for veterans and about raising money for the veteran welfare needs of the Napier RSA and Clubs Hastings — and at the end of the ride that equated to more than $3000, Social Cruizers spokeswoman and ride organiser Theresa Sands said.

"It was a great turnout and a great result."

Close to 200 riders took part aboard a shining and colourful fleet of motorcycles which gathered at the starting point, at Club Hastings, for the 10am ride-off.

The riders headed south to Waipukurau where a wreath was laid at the cenotaph and where they enjoyed a sausage sizzle before heading back north, and to the finishing spot, the Napier RSA.

Sands said along with refreshments, speeches and spot prizes donated by local businesses to help the fundraising cause there was a unique auction of a very special photograph.

It was taken by Willy Ransfield Design Studios at the start of the ride, showing all the participants lined up and ready to ride.

And while the two-wheeled fleet was out on the fundraising run the photo was processed and framed for the afternoon auction — and it raised about $1000.

The event was one of 11 Rides of Respect across the country which took place on Sunday.

It originally began as a single event in the UK but was picked up by Kiwi motorcycle enthusiast Jackie Adams who decided to stage one in New Zealand.

That was in 2015 and it has grown from there — today there are ride organisers, in most cases made up of veterans, in every region of the country.

"The ride success is due to word of mouth and, of course, weather conditions," Sands said. "In previous years the public generosity has been amazing and we are very proud to be a part of it."

She said many people who attend had a story to tell about a family member who was part of the military service.

"That's what this ride is all about — remembering those that made our life what it is today."

Many of the motorcycles in the Hawke's Bay ride bore New Zealand flags, and Sands said motorists along the way appeared to realise something special was happening and were patient in letting up to 200 motorcycles through in front of them at intersections.

Even the police were pleased to be involved in the cause, escorting the bike fleet safely on its way.