A first-time entrant in this month's Motatapu off-road marathon has decided crossing the finish line is not quite enough.
Gitti Tapper, who has lived in the Wakatipu for about 10 years, is seeking donations for her run, which will benefit the Wakatipu Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR) team.
Mrs Tapper said she had not completed a marathon distance before - and never thought she would be able to.
"About a year ago, when I got back into running after a long, long baby/kiddy break, I never thought I would be able to do this.
The Jacks Point 5km/10km series run by Adrian Bailey got me going.
It kept me fit over the winter and helped me build up my running confidence."
Since January, Mrs Tapper has been taking part in organised Sunday runs, the two- to three-hour runs providing a "fantastic" build up to the Motatapu.
Now Mrs Tapper hoped to raise enough money on Saturday to help Wakatipu LandSAR buy some new equipment.
"I very much value the work the local Wakatipu Search and Rescue team does in the area."
LandSAR was updating its Alpine Cliff Rescue gear and communications equipment and Mrs Tapper was hoping to help.
Funds could be deposited directly into the Wakatipu LandSAR account, or cheques could be posted to her to deposit into the account. Cash donations were also welcome, she said.
The Wakatipu LandSAR account is 03 0675 0320862 00.
Donations should include the reference "Gitti" to keep track of the amount raised.
Cheques could be posted to 28 Lake Ave, Frankton.
Receipts were available on request.
For more information on Wakatipu LandSAR visit: www.wakatipusar.co.nz.
