Old high school mates ride together again to raise funds for Cancer Society
Two long-time friends who always wanted to enter the Coast to Coast have finally made that journey – but sitting down the whole way.
North Cantabrians Douglas Moody and Gary Cassidy joined more than 240 other scooter riders on Saturday for this year's Tranz Alpine Scooter Safari, raising funds for the Cancer Society.
The pair have been friends since starting Kaiapoi High School together as 3rd formers in 1980 – 42 years ago.
Moody, based in Loburn, and Cassidy, based in Rangiora, said they were keen to help support the Cancer Society’s work in the region.
“Growing up together, we had always wanted to enter the Coast to Coast as a team,” Moody said.
“Little did we know, eventually we would fulfil that dream albeit sitting down.”
Moody said the trip - which began in Canterbury and traversed the Southern Alps to end in Hokitika - went well, despite the weather.
"Of the six safaris I have taken part in, this was probably the most difficult in terms of weather over the course of the day. We had it all from challenging winds, rain, cold temperatures, and snow on the ground.
"Had we been scheduled to ride the day earlier, we likely wouldn’t have gotten through."
He hoped to raise $2500 towards the overall goal of raising $350,000 this year.
Donations can still be made to scootersafari.org.nz...
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.4% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.3% I want to be able to choose.
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47.3% Against. I want to deal with people.
Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
Canterbury, you have a hidden treasure right on your doorstep ... though it does come with a 1.5-hour walk up the stunning Rakaia Gorge Walkway.
Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.
So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)
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31.8% Yes!
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68.2% No thank you.
Musicians Wanted
‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.
An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com
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