As almost 500 cavalcaders make their way over nine trails towards Omakau this week, new tales are being told and more friendships forged, Goldfields Cavalcade co-ordinator Terry Davis says.
''People who do the cavalcade for the first time are struck by the sense of community and the friendships you build so quickly,'' Mr Davis said.
''When you're sharing a bit of hardship that's the best way to build deep relationships. It's not superficial; you're generally best friends after you've survived a storm going over a mountain.''
While the weather forecast for this week's cavalcade was good and there would hopefully be ''no storms'', the adventures, shared stories and experiences of past cavalcades would be repeated this year in the 25th jubilee cavalcade, Mr Davis said.
Three walking trails, four riding trails and two wagon trails are heading towards Omakau, which will host the grand parade and welcome celebrations on Saturday.