Media release

Wednesday 25 November 2009

White Ribbon Ride Roars into Gear

The White Ribbon Ride led by the Super Maori Fullas and Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club roared out of Wellington today, on its way to visit more 35 cities throughout New Zealand.

The ride, organised by the Families Commission as part of the White Ribbon campaign, takes four separate routes through eastern, western and the central North Island. The riders will join at ASB Showgrounds in Auckland on 27 November. From there it is expected the large contingent of riders will travel together to Bream Bay, Whangarei.

Super Maori Fulla Mervyn Rawiri says, “This is an opportunity for men to stand up and say they do not condone violence against women and children.”
“By participating in the ride, men can help raise awareness and pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence.”

The brothers grew up the “Super Māori Fulla way” – surrounded by love and respect. Now they are using the visibility and mobility of their bikes to encourage all New Zealanders to show that they are against violence toward women and children.

“We hope that by drawing attention to the issue with our bikes, our ride we will reach people in a new way,” says Mervyn.

The Super Maori Fullas will be supported by the Patriot Motorcycle Club, all former or serving members of the New Zealand defence forces. Shane Henry, Patriot and former combat soldier says, “New Zealand is seen as a peacekeeping nation and our members have a background of serving their country. We now want to play a part in reducing violence in our own neck of the woods and we’re proud to support the White Ribbon Ride.”

“Our role will be to act as the road captains and tail end Charlies and assist the Super Maori Fullas with logistical support for the ride” says Shane.
The four rides will visit more than 35 towns and cities across the North Island picking up riders on their way north. At many of the ‘meet and greet’ locations, events have been planned and the public will have an opportunity to meet the riders.

Riders are welcome to join the ride at any of the ‘meet and greet’ locations throughout New Zealand.  Simply visit  www.whiteribbon.org.nz to find out locations times and rules. Riders are also asked to bring items of canned food to be donated to Women’s Refuge. For further information please visit the website.

“Like the yellow markings on a road, there are some lines you don’t cross”, says Roger. “White Ribbon Day is an opportunity to say violence against women and children is a line men won’t cross. Join us on the White Ribbon Ride.”
 

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