Family puts in the legwork
Delivering this year’s internationally recognised Rotorua Walking Festival was a family affair for organiser Deryck Shaw. Shaw’s brother Willie, wife Sally and sons Jeremy, Olly and Nelson contributed to all strategic and operational functions to once again host the legacy event that continues to showcase our amazing environment and natural resources.
Shaw has been involved since the event’s inception in 1993 and has hosted up to 20,000 visitors over the festival’s years.
Headquarters for this year’s event were at Neil Hunt Park, on the doorstep of the Redwoods where walks from 2km to 42km covered all walking abilities.
Previous festivals attracted up to 1200 visitors from around the world and it is part of the World Walking circuit of 7500 events annually across 40 countries.
This three-day event included a night walk, multiple distances and captured unique natural features such as our forests, lakes and geothermal attractions.
The event has partnered with the Rotorua Parents Centre and the SPCA to further the community connections and support for local charities.
The philosophy is focused on inclusion, camaraderie, access, noncompetitive activity, wellbeing and fitness.
Walkers from Malaysia, Korea, Taiwan, Germany and France enjoyed the weekend alongside Kiwis to embrace the kaupapa the event offered.
While our geothermal and natural resources are often promoted to enhance Rotorua’s profile, we could add the Shaw family to our “treasures” as they play their part in contributing to our city’s reputation.