Rotorua children test how fast can go in fun Eastside Trolley Derby

There were smiles, cheers and the clatter of wheels as children tested their speed in the Eastside Trolley Derby.

The Mokoia Community Association, in partnership with the Eastside Community Collective, ran the derby today at the top of Wharenui Rd.

Mokoia Community Association community-led manager Leigh Richards said there were 26 trolley drivers and they had come with pushers.

"We've had some that have come along with their own trolleys they have been putting together over the last wee while."

The Mokoia Community Association's Whatu-ira lead Mary Nicholas said it was great to see the children race and everyone coming out to enjoy the event.

She said they were hoping it would be an annual event.

Parent Ross Dunn said he saw the poster advertising the trolley derby and thought "let's do it".

He built the trolley with his son Xavier Sarich-Dunn, 9, which was their first time building a trolley.

Xavier Sarich-Dunn, 9, with his homemade trolley for the Eastside Trolley Derby. Photo / Stephen Parker

He said the trolley was mostly built out of parts lying around at home.

Dunn said they were stoked with how it turned out.

He said he liked how the derby had allowed Xavier to form an idea and then follow through with making a final creation.

Xavier said he was excited, though a little nervous.

"I enjoyed watching it [the trolley] come together."

Another young trolley racer said it was fun at the beginning of the races because you went really fast.

Last year, 15 Rotorua Lakes High School students were helped to host the Amazing Place Race.

Feedback from the community was to have another event in 2018.

This year Mokoia Intermediate students were given the opportunity to be involved by hosting the trolley derby.

Ralph Mosen, programme director for Horizon Consultancy Ltd, had also worked with students from Rotokawa, Owhata and Mokoia Intermediate schools building trolleys for the event.

Nicholas said the event was also supported on the day by many, including Māori Wardens, Rotorua East Lions, Rotorua Lakes Council, and local iwi.