Mayor Weston Kirton has welcomed adventurers Huw Kingston and Laurence Mote to Ruapehu as part of their inspiring 90-day, 4,000km journey across New Zealand to raise $75,000 for Save the Children and fund new climate-resilient classrooms in Vanuatu.

Dubbed the Alpine Odyssey Aotearoa, the expedition sees the duo skiing, hiking, cycling, and sailing the length of the country through winter, all in support of vulnerable children and climate-affected communities.

Their time in Ruapehu has been supported by Visit Ruapehu, the Department of Conservation, Whakapapa and Tūroa ski fields, Ngāuruhoe Ski Club, Massey University and Tukino Alpine Clubs, along with local businesses Ongarue Valley Retreat, Forgotten World Motel, and Kings Ohakune.

Mayor Kirton said it was a privilege to meet the pair. “Huw and Laurence deserve huge credit for undertaking such an ambitious and inspirational journey for causes that truly matter,” he said.

“I also want to thank Visit Ruapehu for helping coordinate their visit and acknowledge the support from our local operators, DOC, and our ski areas.”

Huw and Laurence expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality they received during their time in Ruapehu, saying they were blown away by the manaakitanga shown by the local community.

To follow their journey, learn more about the causes, or make a donation, visit:
www.huwkingston.com/alpine-odyssey-aotearoa

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