Buried Village open day to support Special Olympians

Buried Village guide Lyn Williams with Special Olympics athletes Maureen McLeod (left), Tristin Nicols and sports co-ordinator Stella McLeod. Photo / Alice Guy

Tomorrow marks the 131st anniversary of the Tarawera eruption and to celebrate the Buried Village will be open to the public for a gold coin.

Each year the company choose an organisation to support and this year all proceeds will go to Special Olympics Rotorua as they fundraise for the National Summer Games.

In order to travel away the team need to raise $80,000 for registration, transport, accommodation and team uniforms.

Buried Village general manager Mike Gibbons said he received an SOS from the team and instantly wanted to get on board.

"We were already looking for a great cause to donate to," he said.

"What they do is cool, very cool. They have such a great attitude and they're all brave enough to give it a go."

Mr Gibbons said the tourist attraction had partnered with a variety of charities over the years but they saw some real opportunities for continued work with the Special Olympics team.

"They show such passion and perseverance, they compete and they win and they represent Rotorua well."

The team of 47 athletes will travel to Wellington in November.

It will be the first national games for indoor bowler Tristin Nicol.

"I started back when I was at Western Heights High School," he said.

"I like that it's just something anybody is able to play."

Mr Nicol said he was looking forward to going away.

"I am looking forward to travelling away with my friends."

Maureen McLeod has competed in ten pin bowling and basketball, but will be playing soccer this year.

"I am very excited," she said.

Many of the athletes have never stayed away from home for more than one night, so ensuring the care and comfort levels of the athletes is crucial.

What: The Buried Village Open day fundraiser for Special Olympics
When: Tomorrow, service at 10am and tours on the hour from 11am-2pm
Where: The Buried Village Rotorua
Cost: Gold coin