Island’s population swells for inaugural race
STEWART Island might double its population this weekend for the inaugural Rakiura Challenge trail run.
Organisers, residents and the island’s businesses are getting ready for the ‘‘biggest event to happen’’ on the island.
The 33.7km trail run around the Great Walk sold out within hours of registrations opening, attracting 250 participants and at least 100 supporters, including 40 marshals and 12 Southern Institute of Technology students to help with catering.
Race director Chris Cox said
the response to the event was overwhelming. The only time the island had had similar numbers was during cruise season.
‘‘But they [the cruise ships] just stay here for a halfday. Stewart Island has 400 residents; probably we will have 800 in these three days. It is quite exciting.’’
The island has 600 extra beds and he was not aware of any issues of people trying to find accommodation.
Mr Cox said of the 250 runners, only five were Stewart Island residents.
‘‘Almost all the participants are tourists and I dare to say that 95% are visiting the island for the first time.’’
This is the case for lawyer Alex Chapman, from Wellington, who has always wanted to visit the island but never had the chance.
When she heard about the event, she decided it was the ‘‘perfect excuse’’ to have a weekend off.
‘‘I organised to be in front of the computer when they opened registrations. I was quite lucky because I know some friends did not make it.
‘‘They said it is one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand, so I’m looking forward to experiencing everything.’’
Invercargill resident Sean Colyer flew to the island to be part of this ‘‘historic event’’.
‘‘I’ve been there plenty of times but it’s quite special to be part of the first event of its type.’’
Flight and ferry companies have added extra trips for the race weekend.
Stewart Island Flights customer service officer David Moffatt said it would have 35 flights.
‘‘Usually we have three services a day but we have additional flights in the peak season if it is demanded.’’
Real Journeys’ Stewart Island ferry is also running an extra service each day and will carry an additional 130 passengers.
Mr Cox said he hoped the run became a yearly event.