3,000 km for Christchurch youth!

It took 28 days, seven hours and 25 minutes – but he’s done it! David has cycled the length of New Zealand, raising funds for Christchurch’s Youth Hub!

Forté Health Board Chair David Barker, along with two mates, started the ride on the 8th of February in Cape Reinga. Since then they have cycled more than 3,000 km along backroads and bike trails, completely unsupported. That means they’ve had to carry all their own gear and equipment.

The ride was part of an event organised by Tour Aotearoa. It finished at Stirling Point, near Bluff.

David says the ride was an amazing experience.

“Riding down the South Island was tough, with some big climbs up the Haast Pass and the Crown Range, but we got to the end with bikes and bodies all in one piece,” David says.

While David’s ride is finished, his fundraising is still going strong with more than $38,000 raised to date for Youth Hub Christchurch.

Youth Hub is Zealand’s first purpose-built Youth Hub. Located on Salisbury Street, the Hub provides everything young people need to support their mental health, from supported housing to health and support services.

“Youth Hub is a transformative project which I am proud to support through this ride. An enormous thank you to everyone who has donated so far. I know every dollar donated will have a lasting impact on young people today, and for generations to come.”

Find out more about Youth Hub Christchurch at www.youthhubchch.org.nz.

If you’re inspired, check out David’s fundraising page at https://givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/riding-the-length-of-nz-for-our-youth