Triathlon inspiring active choices

Tamariki IronMaori competitors make their way to the swim start point in last years's event. Photo / File

A multisport festival which acts as a beacon of hope for Maori amid ailing health statistics has swelled in popularity again this year, an organiser says.

This weekend's IronMaori events in Napier are "packed to the brim", with hundreds more entrants than previous years.

IronMaori co-founder Heather Skipworth QSM said about 600 children and teenagers were registered for the Tamariki and Rangatahi events on Friday - 100 more than last year.

About 800 individuals were also signed up for Saturday's half IronMan event, which was an increase of 200.

People on the sidelines and even officials involved in last year's event had been inspired to take up the challenge themselves.

"There's been a lot more demand. Some of the new entrants are last year's spectators, who watched people of all shapes and sizes and thought, 'if they can do it, I can do it'."

Now in its sixth year, the event aims to introduce Maori to physical exercise and activity while providing a family and group atmosphere.

The event was born in Hawke's Bay and has since spread to Australia's Gold Coast, where a triathlon event was held in July.

It isn't solely for Maori with people of all ethnicities, ages and fitness levels encouraged to participate.

Registrations have closed for this weekend's half IronMan event, which will involve a 2km swim, 90km cycle and 21.1km walk or run, although late registrations are still possible for kids interested in Friday's events.

The half IronMan is on Saturday at 6.15am and the Tamariki (children aged 7 to 12) and Rangatahi (children aged 13 to 17) events are on Friday at 9am and 11.30am respectively. All races start from Pandora Pond, Napier.

Children and teens could register for their events on Friday at Pandora Pond from 7am.