A who’s who of Ōpōtiki first responders and charity workers gathered at the town’s fire station last week for a ceremony to mark the final distribution of funds from Multi-Sport Ōpōtiki Inc, organisers of the Motu Challenge.  

The organisation was being wound-up following the decision last year to end the Motu Challenge Race after running the 31st event.

Once regarded as the North Island’s longest-standing and premier multi-sport race, the event attracted many of the big names in multisport.  

However, the race became too difficult for its relatively small committee to run.  

The challenge comprised of a 65-kilometre mountain bike; 17km run; 52km road cycle; and multisport stage with a 27km kayak, 8km road cycle and 3km run.  

The decision to empty the kitty saw a total of over $60,000 go to organisations which provided the biggest service and benefit across the entire Ōpōtiki community.  

Groups chosen had a significant association with the Motu Challenge in the past and continue to make a significant contribution to the health and wellbeing of the community.  

Leading the list was the Ōpōtiki Volunteer Fire Brigade, which also received the event’s equipment trailer plus $10,000.  

Donations of $10,000 were also given to Ōpōtiki Coastguard and the Ōpōtiki Surf Club. Donations were also given to the St John’s Shuttle, St John Ambulance and Whakatāne Search and Rescue, an organisation which services all of the Eastern Bay.  

Smaller donations were given to Motu Trails, the Quota Club, Ōpōtiki College Cadets, Waka Ama, Ihi Kura Wellness Centre & Gym, Ōpōtiki Theatre Trust, Matawai Search and Rescue and Ōpōtiki Museum.