Organisers expect at least 1200 entries

At least 1200 people are expected to take part in this years Country2Coast

Hawke's Bay Today's popular Country2Coast has seen a surge in registrations this year.

Event manager Kevin Longman said sign-ups for this Sunday's fitness frenzy were up on last year.

The sixth annual event is sponsored by Hawke's Bay Today and run by the Havelock North Rotary Club.

"We anticipate 1200 entrants this year - we're on track for that at the moment. That's about 400 more people than last year, but back to where it was two years ago," he said.

He believed registrations were hampered last year by The Big Easy cycling event being held a week beforehand.

There are three new courses for 2015 - entrants can choose from the TSB Bank 8km fun walk/run; McDonald's 15km fun walk/run and the Hillmac Electrical 20km dash for serious athletes. All start from different locations and converge at Farndon Park in Clive for food, drink and entertainment, with a short prize-giving at 12pm.

Signing up for Hawke's Bay Today's Country2Coast is also a step toward helping the people of Vanuatu.

"There's no profit," Mr Longman said. "Every dollar that's raised goes towards fundraising."

Five thousand families were left homeless in the wake of Cyclone Pam, which struck Vanuatu in March. It is estimated 90 per cent of the buildings on 80 islands in the group were completely destroyed.

So far Rotary International has sent 1000 Shelter Boxes, containing a family-sized tent and extensive survival equipment, including water sterilisation tools, to provide temporary relief until permanent buildings are constructed. Each box costs $1500 and all proceeds from Country2Coast will go towards buying more of the life-saving kits.

It is also hoped teams or groups will raise additional funds beyond the registration fee, which could be put toward more Shelter Boxes.

Online registration for Country2Coast is available until midnight on Thursday. Registration will also be possible at the Havelock North Function Centre from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, and at Farndon Park from 7.30am on Sunday.

Registration details are available at: www.country2coast.co.nz or at the Hawke's Bay Today office.