Motorbike-riding dog Bax and his canine friends give back to SPCA

Ride organiser Jason Wawatai and Bax, and some of his dog-loving pals, raised more than $1600 for the Napier SPCA. Photo/Warren Buckland

Motorcyclists and their four-legged passengers have given the SPCA animal shelters in Napier a boost.

Last Sunday saw the second running of the "Bax Gives Back" fundraising ride organised by Napier motorcycle enthusiast Jason Wawatai and his riding mates — both two-legged and four-legged.

Each of the 10 riders who took part brought their doggy companion — to the delight of people who came across them at the Deco Dog Parade as well as at other local stop-offs.

The ride was to raise awareness of the work the SPCA does but a bucket-bearing collection crew accompanied the bike fleet, and at the end of the day more than $1600 had been collected.

The inaugural run brought in about $1500.

"People were really good and yes, it will be an annual thing now."

Mr Wawatai said tying the ride in with the Art Deco Festival was "a nice fit" because it meant they could take part in the Deco Dog Parade.

Napier SPCA manager Bruce Mills said although the SPCA was now "one" it was crucial it did not lose local support, especially in terms of funding for the shelter work.

"Local fundraising is vital and we are very appreciative to people like Jason."

As well as the cash raised, Mr Mills said was it was heartwarming to see so many people passionate about their dogs and, like all who attended, enjoyed the Deco Dog Parade.

"It's so great to see that."

Mr Wawatai said he was not sure if next year's run would coincide with the festival again.

"But it does seem like a good idea as it fits in pretty well."

For his little mate Bax, it was another great ride.

Now 7, he's been comfortable on his master's Harley-Davidson since he was just 6 months.

He wears a pair of "doggles" over his eyes and harnessed to Mr Wawatai, puts his front feet up on the instrument pod and his back feet on the seat.

"He loves it," Mr Wawatai said.