Oxfam Trailwalker coming
A large charity walking and running event is to be held in Taranaki for the next three years.
The Oxfam Trailwalker, which raises money for Oxfam’s humanitarian work, will be held in New Plymouth from next year.
The first Taranaki event, which usually attracts about 1000 entrants, as well as 1500 supporters, will be held from March 20-21.
First held in 2006, teams of four cover 50 kilometres in 18 hours or 100km in 36 hours together – it is not a relay.
Last year’s event, which was to be held in Whakata¯ne for the fifth and final year, was cancelled because of Covid-19.
Following a tender process with pitches from councils across the country, Taranaki was chosen on a number of criteria, including the variety of landscape and the accessibility from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
But it is not a highest-bid process, Oxfam said.
In a statement, New Plymouth mayor Neil Holdom said the event would be a major boost to the region as it recovers from the coronavirus-induced economic downturn.
‘‘It’s another major event in our beautiful region as we continue to build a lifestyle capital, and it will be a superb showcase for our wonderful corner of Aotearoa.’’
Venture Taranaki chief executive Justine Gilliland said the event would bring a significant boost to the Taranaki economy.
Oxfam New Zealand executive director Rachael Le Mesurier said she hoped the Taranaki community would enjoy being part of it.
‘‘We are delighted with the support of our Taranaki hosts, as the spirit of local hospitality and encouragement will make all the difference as hundreds of walkers set out to challenge poverty over 50 or 100 kilometres.
‘‘We also look forward to seeing many Taranaki locals stepping out on the start line or supporting in some other way, as we make history with the first Oxfam Trailwalker in the region.’’
The event typically raises close to a million dollars each year to support projects in the Pacific and around the world.
This will now include providing support to those hit doubly hard by poverty and the coronavirus pandemic.