Hawke’s Bay walk and run event returns with new course

Walkers and runners will follow a new course through the Havelock North countryside this Saturday when the Aramex Kiwi Walk & Run Trail Series returns to Hawke’s Bay.

Starting and finishing at Black Barn Vineyards, the Vineyard Vista Trail offers a choice of 5.8km, 12.3km and 14.5km distances.

Series ambassador and former Silver Fern Irene van Dyk, who lives in Hawke’s Bay, will lead warm-up activities at the start line for the October 10 event.

Event director Lauren Watson says the new course is the main change this year. The longest option follows a 14.5km loop taking in gravel paths, vineyard trails and quiet rural roads, with climbs and descents offering views across the countryside.

The series is designed to appeal to people looking for a social outing, including those who might not usually enter a trail running event.

Watson says organisers have deliberately made the events non-competitive, encouraging people to get outdoors and explore with friends.

“Over half the people come and walk it,” she says.

“It’s just a way to get outside and explore in kind of like a non-threatening, fun way.”

That emphasis on spending time together continues beyond the finish line. At Black Barn, the event’s “walk n wine” theme includes the opportunity to enjoy wine and a cheeseboard afterwards.

Watson says the Hawke’s Bay event usually attracts one of the larger turnouts in the series, with visitors travelling to the region for a weekend away. She believes the region’s appeal as a destination contributes to its popularity.

Although women make up a large proportion of participants, Watson says men also take part, alongside children and older adults.

“It’s quite unique in that it’s really inclusive of all ages.”

Entries remain open, with Watson saying people can register online until the morning of the event.

For more information or to enter, visit the Vineyard Vista Trail website.