Tour of New Zealand founder/tour director Peter Yarrell says "I know the right people and the sponsors and how the system works".
"And when you’ve given away $400,000 or $350,000 to the charities every second year, it’s hard to stop."
Back as tour ambassador for the third time is four-time Olympian and seven-time Tour de France rider Julian Dean, who says he’s "thrilled to be a part of this incredible event once again".
Due to accommodation constraints, the field’s restricted to 130 riders, most of whom come from Auckland.
Riders are asked to choose one of five NZ charities to contribute to.
Queenstown rider Raymond Key, however, is fundraising for Whakatipu Rowing Club while fellow local Warwick Jones has chosen Child Cancer Foundation.
Prizegiving’s at the Queenstown Events Centre next Friday.
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