Bikers powered-up ready for Anzac Day charity ride

Ulysses Motorcycle Club Hawke's Bay members Len June Taradale, Cliff Haydon, Napier, Jeff McPhun, Taradale, Robert Anderson, Taradale and Barry Robertson, Napier. Photo/Duncan Brown

The Hawke's Bay branch of the Ulysses Motorcycle Club is revved up and ready to raise money for its adopted charity, St John on Anzac Day.

"All the Ulysses branches around New Zealand have an ambo run once a year," club president and rider mentor Cliff Heydon said.

"On Friday it's our turn."

Ulysses has been staging the annual fundraising rides for just over 10 years after it was decided that St John would be its national charity.

Mr Heydon said "doubtful" weather last year resulted in a slightly lower than hoped for result with about $850 being raised .

Some rides had resulted in up to $1500 being raised for St John and Mr Heydon said he was confident they would reach and even exceed that this Anzac Day.

"It coincides with our Hawke's Bay rally on Saturday and Sunday so we'll have riders arriving here on Friday for that - so they will take part in the St John ride."

He anticipates about 150 motorcycles and riders taking part.

As well, members of three locally-based hot-rod clubs were also keen to be involved.

The ride will be run over about 65km and will set out from the National Aquarium carpark at 1pm and go through Haumoana, Havelock North, Hastings, Roy's Hill and into Taradale where the group will gather at the Duke of Gloucester hotel. Mr Heydon said it was an enjoyable way to put something back into the community and all club riders were welcome.

The club had also supported other fundraising events such as the annual Toy Run as well as staged an annual run for Birthright.