Miserable weather conditions failed to dampen the turnout at this year’s Special Rigs for Special Kids as big rigs in their hundreds lined up for a special cause yesterday.
More than 240 truckies, and their vehicles, participated in the annual activity day ferrying a bunch of excited children from Dunedin’s Edgar Centre through to Mosgiel and back again in a large loop.
Event co-organiser and founder Greg Inch said the event, which has run since 1992, seemed to go from strength to strength every year.
"We had a couple of years off due to Covid-19, but every other year it’s been solid.
"We’ve backed up two and a-half streets with trucks — I’m really pleased."
The day offers children the opportunity to observe and ride in some of the biggest rigs on the road.
Drivers had come from as far afield as Central Otago, Southland and Christchurch to take part.
"Every truck was full of kids.
"It’s great that it all comes together.
"It’s the simplicity of it — we’re here to give special-needs children a ride in a truck and get to know the driver.
"It’s well thought of in the community. It’s an opportunity to provide a free day of entertainment for families."
The convoy left from the Edgar Centre, travelling through Queens Dr in St Kilda, up over Corstorphine and through Kaikorai Valley over Three Mile Hill Rd, through Mosgiel, Green Island and back again through Corstorphine.
"We had people watching from the side of the roads for most of the journey."
Truck drivers participated in a charity auction later in the day; in the past proceeds have gone to the Cancer Society, Rescue Helicopter Trust and CanTeen.
"We just want to thank the community for getting behind us. Dunedin still has a heart of the community; and that’s why this event works."
