Cyclist pedals to fund Plunket services

Flanked by The Warehouse and Plunket supporters, Jason Polglase gets a hug from daughter Isabelle before hitting the road. PHOTO/ BEVAN CONLEY

Jason Polglase hasn't been on a bike for a while - but he was looking forward to pedalling the 44km from Whanganui to Bulls on Tuesday.

He's the assistant manager of Levin's The Warehouse, and The Warehouse is helping Plunket raise the funds it needs to provide community services. Sponsorship manager Melaney Branch said clinical services are paid for by Government, but Plunket needs another $4 million a year to provide things like antenatal classes, lactation support and coffee mornings for new mothers.

Mr Polglase is part of the Pedal for Plunket fundraising effort. It's a bicycle relay, stopping at The Warehouse stores on the way.

His ride on SH3, with a support vehicle, will raise $250 promised by family and friends.

"It's a good cause, and it's something out of my comfort zone," he said.

He was told the ride would take about three hours. From Bulls other riders were to continue to Levin.

Pedal for Plunket is in its second year. Last year it raised $297,000 nationally. Miss Branch said it has already reached $335,000 this year.

The money comes from sponsorship and donations, and also from people agreeing to add $1 to purchases from The Warehouse.