M2O fundraiser a success

A cross-country mountain bike ride named M2O (Macraes to Ocean) held on 6 April has raised $7406.91 for the Coastal Community Cycle Connection, a project to provide an off-road walking and cycling path between the townships of Waikouaiti and Karitane, and Warrington and Waitati, connecting through to Port Chalmers.

Just over 150 people rode the route, which was designed to make the most of the views and utilised tracks over private properties. Organiser Nick Scott said "the overwhelming feedback was that it was a great day in the hills with a great group of people". The event culminated in a 'debrief' at Arc Brewery at Evansdale.

"We'd like to thank the landowners for access, and the Eastern Junior Rugby Club for covering the vehicle and bike logistics, as well as the much appreciated aid station" said Nick.

Sponsors included OceanaGold Macraes Operation, East Coast Passenger Services, The Photo Gallery, Arc Brewing Co. and East Coast Couriers.

Coastal Communities Cycle Connection coordinator Emily Cooper said "we are now only $9000 away from having enough funds to get the preliminary design of the clip-on bridge done, thanks to the incredible amount raised by the M2O."

With background work continuing on the Waitati to Port Chalmers section, the group's immediate goal for fundraising is $25,875 for the cost of the preliminary design for the clip-on for the Waikouaiti rail bridge, which is part of Section 1 of the project.

Emily says "We will have the opportunity to add the clip-on when Kiwirail finish building their new bridge, which is currently under construction." 

The next community fundraising event will be a bingo night on 18th May at Karitane Hall. Donations to specific sections of the project can also be made on the Dunedin Tracks & Trails website.