Teams back anti-violence relay

Angels, Billy Ts and firefighters turned out in force to support the White Ribbon Campaign in Masterton yesterday.

Violence Free Network Wairarapa organised a relay event to rally community support for the anti-violence campaign.

After a false start, Wairarapa Athletics won the relay race with flying colours.

Network co-ordinator Gerry Brooking said it was fantastic to see the turn-out at the event.

She said people had made a real effort with their costumes this year and she was impressed with the 19 teams that entered.

Those ranged from schools such as Masterton Intermediate School, community groups such as Whaiora and the Fire Service.

Ms Brooking said one in three women experienced physical or sexual abuse from their partners in New Zealand - and 14 women had died last year.

She said the relay was to "raise awareness and get people in behind White Ribbon" and to create a positive community feel, which had been achieved.

Seven members of the Wairarapa police cycled about 100km from Masterton to Martinborough and back to help raise awareness of the campaign.

Despite having a flat tyre, Wairarapa area commander Inspector Brent Register said it was a great cycle and a real team effort.

"The whole team stopped and helped me, which was great," he said.

Child Youth and Family lawyers Amanda Barclay and Ruth Harcourt ran in the relay.

The women, who dressed as angels, said it was a great cause. "Violence is a major issue in New Zealand," said Ms Barclay.