Moa Experience a chance to tackle the local trails

Stem Rural Accountants directors, from left, Trudi Ballantyne, Martin Pipe and Nick Cole, Robynne Cabusao (Te Puke Harriers), Moa Experience organiser Elle Reid and Selwyn Mawkes from Te Puke Harriers.

If getting more people to experience the local countryside was a goal of the Moa Experience - and it was - then the trail run has been a remarkable success.

Started four years ago by Te Puke Primary School teacher Elle Reid, last year's event sold out.

This year's run takes place a little later than in previous years but, surprisingly, the reason isn't Covid-related.

''We have pushed the date back to November, due to lambing season being in September,'' says Elle.

This year's event will be the fourth staged over Pāpāmoa Hills and Summerhill Farm and takes place on November 29.

There are two courses - the full 15km distance and the Mini Moa at 8km.

''It's always well received and was fully subscribed last year,'' says Elle. ''We've had increased numbers each year and always the majority of people are local, which is awesome.''

The idea of an organised trail run came to Elle because she loved running the trails and wanted to share that with other people.

''It's surprising how many locals haven't been up to that area. They have been to Pāpāmoa Hills, but not Summerhill.''

Elle says trail running has increased in popularity over the past decade.

''And I think a lot of older people are choosing a trail run rather than [road] running.

''There are so many events, particularly trail events, that are open to your weekend social runner.''

She says the Mini Moa is suitable for beginners, because of the relatively short distance, but some experience is desirable for the longer distance as it does have some technical sections.

Elle began running in 2009 and did her first marathon that year.

''I started on the road, but someone took me up Pāpāmoa Hills one day and that was that - I was converted. I think for most people it's being in the outdoors or being in the bush - it's more of an enjoyment for a lot of people. You're not looking at your watch all the time because time is not as relevant.

''Generally people who run trails are more interested in the wellness side of it, the whole package, rather than how long it takes them.''

After sharing marshalling duties with Pāpāmoa Surf Lifesaving Club last year, Te Puke Harriers will take on the role themselves this year and will also handle all the registrations.

Some of the younger members took part last year.

''Now their age has increased and their preparation has increased, some of those kids are running the longer distance and some of them will be competing for a second time.''

For the third year, Stem Rural Accountants (formerly Business Results Group) have sponsored the event.

Director Trudi Ballantyne says staff are being encouraged to enter.

''We've just organised an in-house boot camp for our team which might help them with the Moa,'' she says.

For more information visit: https://www.themoaexperience.co.nz/