Arrowtown Trolley Derby is an event that glues the community together, says organiser Anton Schmitz.
Sixteen trolleys entered the annual Arrowtown Preschool fundraiser, an increase on previous years.
Mr Schmitz puts it down to the fun, family atmosphere and the willingness of locals to get stuck in.
"It is a fantastic community day run by volunteers, and local businesses are supportive and pitch in. It is a small community and this is one of those events that feels like glue for the community at large. It is an opportunity to come together and meet new people."
It has been plagued with poor weather for the past two years.
Mr Schmitz said organisers were "stoked" the sun decided to come out, boosting the number of people watching trolleys race the course to Butlers Green.
Each competitor completed two trial laps to build confidence and collect race times to determine who would compete in the head-to-head finale. Andy McRae, driving for The Builders, blew out his back tyre while completing his recce on the track.
A couple of drivers crashed out on the final hairpin bend on Villiers St, and Carlton Johnstone rolled his trolley, God speed, near St John’s Church, buckling a wheel. Gravity Quad, built and driven by Jody Blatchley, of Wanaka, took first place.
Engineered to Shout, driven by Todd Sutherland, was second and Arrowtown’s Sam Monk came
third in Monk Earthworks. A luge race featured alongside the main event. Seven-year-old Tai Te Paa, of Arrowtown, entered with his aunt.
"It was amazing, really good fun, but Aunty Bridget [Cameron] nearly made me crash — she was scared."
A sausage sizzle, face painting, bouncy castle and food trucks were also part of derby day.
Mr Schmitz stressed the event would not be possible without those who came along either to compete, volunteer, pick up a bite to eat or simply get involved and cheer on the drivers.
