Joes Garage Charity Cycle Riders leave Whangarei on their way to Wellsford. Photo / John Stone
Northland farmers suffering from depression and anxiety are among thousands expected to benefit from a charity run covering the length of the North Island which hopes to raise $150,000.
A group of 33 bike enthusiasts based in Taranaki, including six women, set off from Cape Reinga on Sunday for a
1400-kilometre, nine-day ride which finishes at Cape Palliser, the southernmost point of the North Island south-east of the Wairarapa Coast, on Tuesday. They called into Whangarei on Tuesday.
Organiser Darrel Nicholas said six riders from New Plymouth started on a charity run 18 months ago before they decided on a bigger ride in the South Island with an aim to raise $20,000. Instead, he said 26 riders completed their fundraiser and gave $170,000 towards rural depression.
Mr Nicholas said 80 per cent of the 33 riders or their family and friends have been directly or indirectly impacted by depression at some stage in their lives.
"We know each other through sports and business. This group has collectively lost 150 kilos just by riding so the health benefits have been amazing. The other benefit is camaraderie," he said.
