Cold Kiwi numbers down, fun up

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 453, 15 September 1992, Page 3

Cold Kiwi numbers down, fun up

By

Jan

Savell

More than 2000 motorcycle enthusiasts from all over New Zealand spent a cold and wet weekend parked next to the Desert Road for the 18th Cold Kiwi rally recently.

The rally attracted motorcycle riders ranging in age from 5 to 75 from all over New Zealand. Each rider had to be self sufficient and they came equipped with anything from a pup tent to a trailer towed behind the motor-

cycles. The site is slightly north of the Desert Road summit and two large bonfires formed the focal point of the weekend. The emphasis was on a chance to get together and have some fun. Events held on Saturday after-

noon included a hill scramble, burn out and even a push-bike obstacle course. The event is organised each year by the Ruapehu Motorcycle Club (RMC). Although they have a membership of less than 20 they organise the

rally which has had up to 4000 participants in the past. "The weather last year put people off pre-paying this year," said Steve McAllister, RMC member. "We estimate 2500 turned up. That's down on last year but we're still pleased. Everyone had a good time and the week-

end went well." This year's rally included a combined startup for the first time. At 4.30pm on Saturday every motorcycle in the Camp was started up in remembrance of mates who were unable to be at the rally. "It was a bit scary. All that power was incredible" said Steve McAllister.