While most of us enjoy a lie-in this Saturday, intrepid walkers from across the country will converge on misty trails in Taupo to challenge themselves and challenge poverty at Oxfam Trailwalker.
While most of us enjoy a lie-in this Saturday, intrepid walkers from across the country will converge on misty trails in Taupo to challenge themselves and challenge poverty at Oxfam Trailwalker.
A record 1200 participants will walk – or run, if they’re keen – a full 100 kilometres in less than 36 hours, and all to help Oxfam raise vital funds to support its work with communities living in poverty in the developing world.
After training for months, people have come from across New Zealand and as far away as the UK, France, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, the US and Australia. The trail takes walkers through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery, including Huka Falls, native bush and views across Lake Taupo.
But the event’s draw comes from more than just picturesque scenery. Oxfam New Zealand’s Executive Director Barry Coates said, “Oxfam Trailwalker is an amazing event. It is not only a huge personal challenge, but it also challenges the assumption that we cannot make a real contribution to overcoming the scandal of poverty and injustice.
“Congratulations to the record number of participants and their support crews, and thanks to all the donors who create the opportunities for thousands of people in poverty to overcome their own challenges,” said Coates.
In taking on Oxfam Trailwalker each team of four people commits to raise a minimum of $2000, but most teams raise more. Currently at the top of the fundraising leader board is Wellington team “For the Love of the Green Track Suit” with $9,884.04.
Oxfam’s goal is to raise $1 million through Oxfam Trailwalker this year. The event has a huge impact on the lives of people living in poverty in the developing world – communities are able to build clean water supplies, families can grow more food, women are protected from violence and children are given the chance at an education.
Oxfam spokesperson Jason Garman said, “There are thousands of walkers, support crews, families and friends coming to the event this weekend. The Taupo community continues to be amazing. Dozens of landowners allow the course to cross their land, hundreds of volunteers do everything from marking the trail to directing traffic, and community groups run the checkpoints. Thank you Taupo,” said Garman.
Throughout this weekend, people can keep track of each team’s progress and follow the live blog at www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.nz.
