Nelson Tasman is about to go hell for leather for Christmas presents, but for some families in need in the community, Christmas takes a backseat.
That’s why the Salvation Army and Ulysses Nelson are once again rolling in with a toy convoy on 14 November from Richmond to Trafalgar Park for a cause never to be toyed with.
The annual Toy Run, now in its 41st year, revs up the Christmas spirit of giving so local families, whatever their situation, can have toys for their tamariki under the tree.
Organiser Allan Smith says the general public never fail to rally behind it.
“We’re always thrilled to be riding along and have so many of the public who come out on the street,” Allan says.
“Many of them are highly organised with deck chairs and cups of tea and everything, waiting for us to come along, and they wave to us.
“We encourage all motorcyclists to come along and have a great time. Last year we had 180 bikes. I'm hoping to crack 200 this year.”
Nelson Police will escort the convoy and, through coordination with the Wellington Transport Operations Centre, ensure traffic lights remain green throughout the route.
A Salvation Army van will follow at the rear of the parade, collecting toys and games from supporters along the route before arriving at Trafalgar Park, where the public can view the motorcycles and make donations.
The Toy Run starts at Papps car park in Richmond at 11am and travels via Queen St, Salisbury Rd, Main Rd Stoke, Waimea Rd, Rutherford St, Halifax St and Trafalgar St.
Nelson Building Society (NBS) is the event's primary sponsor, providing $50 prizes for categories which include best-decorated bike and best-dressed rider.
