A new community event is set to carry on a long tradition of support for Arohanui Hospice, with the inaugural Te Āpiti Traverse on Saturday the 19th of September aiming to bring hundreds of participants together while raising vital funds for local hospice care.
Organised by the Woodville Lions Club, the Te Āpiti Traverse will take place on Saturday 19 September, offering something for everyone with four different distances available, from a full marathon through to shorter run and walk options. Participants will experience the stunning Te Āpiti landscape while helping support the work of Arohanui Hospice.
For Woodville Lions coordinator Warren Jones, the fundraiser reflects both a personal connection and the Lions' longstanding commitment to serving their communities.
“My own father was given the very best of hospice care at Te Omanga, in Lower Hutt" Warren says. "It's both a personal connection and a civic interest, which is one of the founding principles of Lions worldwide.”
“The event continues a proud fundraising legacy of former gorge railway walking events that stretches back more than two decades. Together, previous Lions fundraising events have raised more than $230,000 for Arohanui Hospice, and we look forward to building on that total with this event."
Determined to keep that support flowing, volunteers developed the Te Āpiti Traverse as the next chapter in the fundraising journey.
"We're hoping for year-on-year growth to expand the event," Warren says. "We're working really hard to make sure the event is both enjoyable and attractive to bring people in increasing numbers to the event as we move forwards."
The response from the community has already been encouraging, with more than 100 people registered and a goal of attracting at least 200 participants in the event's inaugural year. Participants can also make a donation directly to Arohanui Hospice when they sign up.
CE of the Arohanui Hospice Clare Randall says “The Woodville Lions’ Gorge Track and Tunnel Walk was a much-loved fundraising event, and it is wonderful to see that legacy continue through the new Te Āpiti Traverse Walk. The club has made a significant contribution to hospice care over many years, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support.”
Arohanui Hospice would like to sincerely thank the Woodville Lions Club, Warren Jones, the event sponsors, volunteers, and everyone involved in bringing the Te Āpiti Traverse to life. Community-led fundraising events such as this make a meaningful difference and help ensure hospice services remain available to local patients and whānau when they need them most.
Registrations are now open, and organisers are also seeking volunteers to assist with marshalling, water stations, and other event-day activities. To learn more or register, visit www.teapititraverse.nz.
Join the Te Āpiti Traverse and help support compassionate hospice care in our community.
