Entries in the 2024 Scooter Safari from Christchurch to Hokitika.
Photo: Supplied/Cancer Society
New Zealand Transport Agency is urging all motorists to be patient, before the South Island’s Scooter Safari on Saturday.
The endurance event, from Christchurch to Hokitika, will see 250 scooters travelling 250km down State Highway 73.
This is the 10th year of the Scooter Safari, which has been held every second year, since 2009, to raise money for the Cancer Society.
People will ride a 50cc scooter, capable of travelling between 50-55 km/h on the open road.
“With vehicles like these motorised scooters having less protection than other vehicle types, people are urged to take extra care when travelling in the same space or passing,” a spokesperson said.
Photo: Supplied/Cancer Society
Scooter Safari
Riders will depart from the Vintage Car Club on McLeans Island Road in Christchurch at 9am, making their way coast-to-coast, before finishing at the Boys’ Brigade in Hokitika about 5pm.
The Scooter Safari operates as an organised touring convoy, with riders travelling in managed groups, supported by event staff, volunteers and support vehicles. Scheduled pitstops ensure safe movement and minimise disruption to other road users.
Southern Cancer Society’s funding and partnerships head Jonet Warhurst said the Scooter Safari was not for the fainthearted.
“Which makes what these riders are doing even more impressive,” she added.
Warhurst said it started as a creative, grassroots idea to support a friend and do something “a bit different” for a great cause.
In 2009, a man named Blair Newton was diagnosed with bowel cancer. A group from Air New Zealand Engineering set out on a challenge ride to support him and raise funds for the Cancer Society, who was caring for Newton.
Newton died in 2014, the Scooter Safari has continued in his memory.
“Over the years, it’s grown into a much-anticipated event that combines adventure, fun and real impact for people affected by cancer.”
Photo: Supplied/Cancer Society
Warhurst said the first Scooter Safari in 2009 saw 35 riders and raised $13,000. It is expected to raise more than $400,000 this year, with 250 riders and a waitlist.
“I think, this year, we sold out within one day.”
Warhurst said it had raised $2.2 million for the Cancer Society in total.
The money was used for accommodation, transport assistance, counselling services and cancer research.
“Cancer affects so many families across Aotearoa.
“Scooter Safari shows how communities can come together, have fun and make a meaningful difference at the same time.
“It’s a special event to be part of.”
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