The Disabilities Resource Centre has partnered with organisations to bring an Amazing Race-style event to Whakatāne, with organisers hoping to create a fun and inclusive day for people of all ages and abilities.

The event will be held tomorrow along the Warren Cole Walkway and in the Whakatāne Rose Gardens area.

Organisers say the focus of the day is not competition but participation, community connection, and having fun.

Participants will receive a passport and can complete a range of activities set up throughout the course.

As they take part in challenges, quizzes, and other activities, their passports will be stamped before being entered into a prize draw at the end of the event.

The Amazing Race will run from 11am until 2pm, although people are welcome to arrive at any time during the event.

Disabilities Resource Centre manager Naomi Freeman said the idea came from similar event through the Redwoods in Rotorua, organised by Parafed.

“We’ve taken some clients there a couple of times, and it’s so much fun.

“We’re like, let's hold one over here – so, we have.”

A variety of activities will be available, giving participants the opportunity to choose how much they want to take part.

Among the activities planned are giant soccer games, quiz challenges, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s virtual reality fire safety experience, which allows people to experience how quickly a fire can spread and identify safe escape routes.

Freeman said the event had been designed to be accessible, with participants able to complete as many or as few as they wished.

“We just want everyone to feel welcome and included to participate, whether you have a disability or not. This event’s for everyone.”

She said the goal was to bring people together and provide an opportunity to meet others in the community while enjoying a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

“It doesn't matter if you’re first or last; everybody's in to win.”

Organisers have already received more than 100 pre-registrations and are encouraging anyone interested to come along and take part.

“Success for us is seeing people smile and just have fun,” Freeman said.