New multisport event to test adrenaline junkies

The Bream Head Scenic Reserve will provide the terrain and backdrop to the Wild Kiwi multisport event next year. Photo / File

A challenge of a different sort lies in wait for those seeking some contrast from their adrenaline-based adventure sport activity.

Taking place next April in Northland's scenic Whangarei/Bream Heads region, the Wild Kiwi is a new run/walk/multi-sport event that has been 18 months in the planning.

Promising to deliver some challenging, yet achievable, vista-filled courses, race organiser Michael Davis said the support behind the event has been immense.

"We have this extraordinary coastline and playground on our doorstep and it was begging for an event to be held through its trails and terrain," he said.

"The local support and encouragement to get this event off the ground has been immense and our event management team looking forward to showcasing our beautiful part of the world."

The Wild Kiwi will be held on a number of different parcels of land throughout the Whangarei Heads region, with the vast majority of the courses utilising the Bream Head Scenic Reserve. There has been much collaboration with local stakeholders, including the Bream Head Conservation Trust, Department of Conservation and local Iwi, Ngatiwai.

Ngatiwai Trust Resource Management representative Dane Karapu said the event had plenty to offer participants.

"Ngatiwai are proud to support the Wild Kiwi event as it not only promotes fitness, health and well-being, but also raises awareness of the kauri dieback issues that threaten the native forests of our rohe."

Whangarei District Council venues and events manager John Lynch added the event is much needed for the region.

"We are fully supporting the organisers as this is a significant event that will bring a large number of competitors and visitors to town and help stimulate activity. We also see this type of event as being required in our district to showcase the beautiful countryside we have to offer."

The Wild Kiwi is scheduled for April 16, 2016.