Aria trail ride on for Saturday

THIS Saturday, the Āria Trail Ride is expected to host about 650 off-road motorcycle riding enthusiasts from across the North Island.

For about 15 years, Āria Domain has been the destination of two and four-wheel biking buffs intent on celebrating the area’s two-day-event.

Previously it has drawn riders from as far afield as Taranaki, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Auckland and Wellington.

“Last year there were even a few participants from the South Island, who told us conditions back home had become just too dry for this kind of event,” organiser Dani Darke said.

“We’re lucky in that regard, as we’ve had a little rain ahead of the event, so that will help to reduce dust.”

The event begins at the domain and continue across nearby farmland.

A 120-kilometre course is split into three loops to suit riders of all ages and stages.

The trail ride is open to two-wheelers, and to side-by-side machines. Most of those taking part will camp at the domain.

Dani said one of the highlights was the excellent food provided on Saturday night, which included a hangi and two spit roasts.

“The secret of this event is the calibre of the volunteers who make it possible by freely giving their time,” she said.

The nucleus is a committee of about 10 parents from Āria School, assisted by about 30 or so members of the community who help out in various roles.

These included going on the gate, cooking meals, marking the track and sweeping it for hazards, or assisting those who have broken down or crashed.

Key helpers include Lions Club members from Piopio and Te Kūiti.

Proceeds will go to the Āria School and the Āria Domain Committee, with donations to other helpful organisations including the Lions and St John.

“It’s a real community effort to stage this event and we always get a lot of positive feedback and thank yous from those taking part.”