White Ribbon Riders spread anti-violence message

White Ribbon Rider Rick Hepi talks to Eltham Primary School students.

The roar of motorbike engines heralded the arrival of the White Ribbon Riders at Eltham Primary School last week.

The riders stopped at the school as part of the White Ribbon Ride which involves a crew of motorcycle riders visiting primary and secondary schools to promote respectful relationships between men and women.

Justin Salisbury during the Jump Jam session.

Dressed in purple hoodies and leather vests emblazoned with white ribbon patches, the riders spoke to the students about role models before engaging in a question and answer session. They also participated in a Jump Jam session — dancing to several songs with the students on the school's tennis courts.

Room one and two students loved the Jump Jam session.

White Ribbon Rider and ambassador Takurua Tawera says the starting point for putting things right is when fathers and other men help boys and young men develop respectful behaviour in their relationships.

Tui Turner.

"All of the stats show fathers are more likely to talk to their daughters about the risks of sexual violence and consent. They are far less likely to talk to their sons about respectful relationships and respectful sexual relationships. It is those ongoing talks that strengthen behaviour."

Nivana-Lee Reid.

He says men need to outside the stereotyped thinking that reinforces negative behaviour.

"Developing values and empathy gives men better relationships happiness and health," he says.

Rider Rick Hepi spoke about the importance of role models — including parents and teachers.

Tui Turner enjoying herself.

"If you have anything happen that's not nice you can go and see your school teacher — they are here to look after you as well."

Rick says some of the riders were brought up experiencing family violence and wanted to help make a change within society.

Blake Annabell hitches a ride.

"It all starts here with the young ones."