MPs join three-day trail to Bulls with youth from Napier

There could be a group of 50 people walking from Turakina Beach to Bulls on the Te Araroa Trail on February 13, says Bulls community development manager Jan Harris.

She's organising the day, and plans to invite Rangitikei Mayor Andy Watson and Rangitikei MP Ian McKelvie to come along.

Maori Party MP Marama Fox is to do one of three days of the walk - probably the Bulls to Feilding day, February 14.

The walk is organised by the Te Araroa Offers Hope charitable trust. Founder Pat Magill and Napier organiser Minnie Ratima will be there, with a group of Napier young people.

Their aim is to make the national trail an alternative school for underprivileged youth, and they are bringing about 10 youth from the Napier suburb of Maraenui.

For some of them, the three-day walk from Turakina Beach to Palmerston North will be the fourth section of trail they have done.

Mrs Harris is organising support vehicles for those who get tired on the eight-hour February 13 walk, and says Bulls firefighters will be the group's medics.

Having the trail pass through Bulls would be great for the town, she said, and a family in Brandon Hall Rd was setting up a homestay to host walkers.

Those walking on February 13 are to head south on the beach, then head inland through Santoft Forest to reach Bulls.

They are advised to bring plenty of food and water, and wear comfortable footwear.

Anyone who wants to come can find out more from Mrs Harris by ringing (06) 322 0051 during work days or 021 174 5951.