Hawke’s Bay trail run back blazing with charity partner Te Mata Park Trust following cyclone

Now in its 13th year, the event started as a fundraising event and passion project by Havelock North Primary School parents and attracts around 600 people each year.

It has raised almost $60,000 for community causes and over $100,000 for important school projects. This year the money raised for the school will help to fund an outdoor sports canopy to keep students sunsafe and protected from the elements.

Peak Trail Blazer committee member Brendan Bourke said after having to cancel last year’s event due to damage on the trails from the cyclone, it made sense to choose Te Mata Park as its charity partner.

“The Trust worked so hard to restore access for our local community and visitors to the park after the cyclone. We are grateful we can return to Te Mata Park for the event again this year and for the Trust’s ongoing efforts to enhance and protect this taonga for generations to come,” said Mr Bourke.

Park Manager, Sarah Austin-Smith said, “The Trust is grateful for this community support, which allows us to keep tracks maintained and safe for runners, walkers, and mountain bikers, as well as support native restoration efforts in the Park.”

Mr Bourke said the event is firmly on the running calendar attracting top athletes, but is also focused on catering for all ages and fitness levels.

“We’ve got something for everyone. You can run or walk both the long course up Te Mata Peak or the 3.5km shorter course through Tainui Reserve, which is a hugely popular option for families and our younger ones.”

Cash prizes are on offer include King and Queen of the Peak (fastest male and female to complete the 12.8km course), second and third fastest male and female, fastest male and woman over 66, fastest male and female aged 11-17 and the fastest male and female walker.

This year, the committee is introducing new categories: a corporate team category and three categories for school students year 8 and upwards to encourage local businesses and young people to complete the Te Mata Park trail.

This Peak Trail Blazer will be held on Sunday 17 November 2024. For full details and to enter visit peaktrailblazer.co.nz.

ENDS

For further information or photos contact: Maria Chalmers (Committee Volunteer) on 027 541 7880.

Photo caption: Sarah Austin-Smith, Park Manager, Te Mata Park Trust (left), with Peak Trail Blazer committee member, Brendan Bourke (right) near native plantings recently planted by the local community.