For one afternoon this Labour Day Weekend, Whakatāne Airport will swap aircraft for bicycles, scooters, skateboards and roller-skates as hundreds of locals take to the tarmac for one of the district's most unique community events.

Ride the Runway is back for its fourth year on Saturday, offering cyclists of all ages and abilities the rare opportunity to ride down an active airport runway in a fun, safe and family-friendly environment.

Community safety advisor Richard Hamer said this year’s ride was shaping up to be another standout event, with a few new additions planned to build on its growing success.

"The inaugural event was attended by 100 keen cyclists of all ages and abilities, and due to its huge success, we have slowly increased our capacity to 300 pedal-powered fanatics.”

Hamer said this year for the very first time, cyclists would have 45 minutes to ride the runway as many times as they like.

“Bring your bike, skateboard, scooter, wheelchair, adaptive bike, or even roller-skates. There will also be prizes for the best dressed tamariki and adult.”

Brought to the community by Whakatāne District Council, Bike Whakatāne Trust and JNP Aviation, Ride the Runway combines the excitement of cycling with a great whānau day out.

The event also serves as a fundraising opportunity for Bike Whakatāne Trust, with the $10 per person entry fee supporting volunteer safety marshals and a free sausage sizzle after the ride. An ice cream truck will once again be on site with coffee available from the kiosk in the airport terminal, giving participants plenty of opportunities to relax and refuel after their time on the runway.

Whakatāne Airport safety manager Rachael Hartley said the team was looking forward to getting involved in this year’s event and supporting local whānau as they took part.

“Our JNP Aviation team are super excited to be supporting this year’s event in person, and being on the ground helping pump up tyres, keeping participants safe and ensuring tamariki and whānau have a fabulous day to remember at the Whakatāne Airport.”

Participants will also have the chance to get up close with Dusty the Aeroplane, stepping on board for a closer look, while enjoying a range of family-friendly activities, including temporary tattoos.

Tickets are required for all participants, including parents walking alongside children on balance bikes. To secure your spot, book your tickets on Eventfinda.

All participants need to arrive by 12 noon for a safety briefing, with the event concluding by 1:30pm.