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The Mahurangi College Senior Mixed Touch Rugby team is calling on community support as it prepares to compete at a national tournament it has dominated for the past two years.
To help cover travel costs to the Secondary School Nationals in Gisborne this December, parents of the players have organised a series of fundraising events, starting with a scenic walk at Mt Harriet later this month.
Scheduled for Sunday May 17, with a backup date of May 24, the 13-kilometre walk will take participants through private land in the Kaipara Hills not normally open to the public. The moderate track, expected to take three to four hours, offers sweeping views of the Kaipara Harbour and a route that winds down to the Hoteo River.
Organiser Angela Matthews said the location was chosen for its unique beauty and accessibility.
“At the highest point, the view of the Kaipara Harbour is magnificent,” she said. “From there, the walk descends into the valley and meanders along the well-known Hoteo River. The Innes family has kindly offered access to their property, which is not usually open to the public.”
The event costs $35 per person or $120 per family and is aimed at fit participants due to the terrain.
Matthews said the walk is a new initiative but could become a regular fundraiser if successful.
“We hope it will bring family and friends together for a unique day out, as well as provide a great team-building opportunity,” she said.
Mahurangi enters the national competition in strong form, having already secured victory at the Auckland College Sport tournament earlier this year. Their goal is to defend their title at the three-day national event in Gisborne, from December 11 to 13.
The competition attracts around 90 secondary schools from across New Zealand, with about 1500 athletes and up to 2000 supporters expected to attend.
“Touch rugby in the Mahurangi region is growing in strength, and these players are standing out among the best in the country,” Matthews said. “Many represent North Harbour and compete at regional and national levels.”
She added that two players from the team recently represented New Zealand in the Under-18 mixed side, helping secure gold at the Asia Pacific Cup in Australia – the country’s first win in the tournament in 15 years.
Looking ahead, Matthews said the sport continues to gain momentum, with aspirations reaching as far as Olympic inclusion.
“The dream would be to see touch rugby included in the 2032 Olympic Games,” she said.
Further fundraising efforts include a Sports Café evening on June 20 at Matakana Primary School Hall, featuring guest speakers such as former All Black Eric Rush and former professional cricketer Glen Turner.
Walk Mt Harriet – Registration is required before of the walk – https://tinyurl.com/dhyzyjvj
