Northlanders still have time to register for one of the region’s largest multi-sport events – the Northpower Wild Kiwi.
The event takes in stunning views and some challenging terrain around Whangarei Heads and event manager Mark Fordham
says there are plenty of entries available for April 13.
“We had around 700 entrants last year and are expecting close to 850 for the 2019 event. We already have more than 50
children registered for the 3km kids’ dash. We would encourage parents to get out there with their children (there is no
age limit) and enjoy this beautiful part of New Zealand,” says Mr Fordham.
“The Northpower Wild Kiwi is about participation, getting people outside and staying healthy. This is our fourth event
and we are expecting our biggest field yet. There are event options for all levels of fitness and ability.”
The kids’ dash starts from Urquhart Bay and winds around the gun emplacement and Home Point, past the aid station at the
bottom of Mt Lion, before returning to the starting point. Event buses will provide transport throughout the day to the
race start and back to the event base.
The Northpower Wild Kiwi consists of a number of events – the multi-sport (individual or teams) which comprises of a
10km sea kayak, 25km mountain bike and 14km run (final 3km completed with all team members if participating in a team);
the 21km run/walk; 15km run/walk; 8km run/walk and the 3km kids’ dash.
Northpower’s General Manager of People and Capability, Andrea O’Brien, says it is pleasing to support the Bream Head
Conservation Trust through the event sponsorship.
“We are very lucky to have access to the Bream Head Scenic Reserve as part of the race course and I am equally thrilled
to have more than 150 Northpower’s 1200 staff from Wellington to Northland taking part. This is a big wellness
initiative for Northpower and our staff have really embraced the opportunity to be part of something so unique.
“The comradery and friendships our staff have made along the way (within the organisation and those outside taking part
in the event) is really heart-warming.”
Due to the risk of the Kauri Dieback Disease, contestants are asked to ensure shoes, tyres and equipment are clean of
dirt before beginning the race, says Bream Head Conservation Trust Head Ranger, Adam Willetts.
The Bream Head Scenic Reserve is a coastal headland 45km south east of Whangarei and has been the scene of ecological
restoration and ongoing conservation educational and recreational efforts since 2002.
With sustained and intensive pest control, the ecosystem is now flourishing, says Bream Head Trust Chair Greg Innes.
“New species have been found, native birds, North Island robin and whitehead have been reintroduced, while species such
as kaka, bellbirds and kakariki, that were only occasional visitors from the Hen and Chicken Islands, are now breeding
within the reserve. We most recently targeted the protection of the marine bird environment and five grey-faced petrels
have fledged,” he says.
“I would like to welcome people to run or walk the area, enjoy the most stunning New Zealand coastal environments with
dramatic scenery and outstanding ecological value – and see how they can get involved with our work.”
For more information: www.breamheadtrust.nz, www.wildkiwi.co.nz