Southland Scooter Challenge revs up for a cause

Riders, start your engines! The PlaceMakers Southland Scooter Challenge is locked in for March 21, 2026 – and places are seriously limited 

With 180 scooters already registered and space for up to 200, this year’s challenge is shaping up to be a great one! Held in support of a local charity called The Grace Street Project, the event brings together scooter enthusiasts and fundraisers from all over Southland for one unforgettable ride from Teretonga to Te Anau on March 21, 2026. But this isn’t just about fun on two wheels – it’s about raising serious funds for mental health and wellbeing in Southland. 

Fundraising with a purpose 

Every rider taking part is required to raise a minimum of $200 for The Grace Street Project. This community initiative supports young people in Southland by providing practical, local mental health resources and events. 

There’s no registration fee to take part in the Scooter Challenge. Instead, riders set up an online fundraising page and rally support from friends, family and their wider community. Donations can be made by heading to this page. 

“This is what makes the event so special,” says Tasha Clay, Trade Support Manager at PlaceMakers Invercargill. “Everyone is riding for something bigger than themselves – and the vibe on the day is amazing!” 

An iconic Southland ride 

The route kicks off in Teretonga and travels all the way to Te Anau – a 194km trip through Southland’s most scenic back roads and high country stretches. Riders cruise in convoy, decked out in costumes, scooter mods and some truly questionable headgear. 

“It’s not a race – it’s a ride,” says Clay. “You’ll see every kind of scooter and every kind of outfit. We’ve seen every type of outfit, from superheroes to farm animals. It’s about fun, fundraising and community.” 

Support crews follow along to ensure everyone makes it safely to their destination, and there are regular checkpoints and refuelling stops along the way. 

Join the fun – and the cause 

With limited numbers remaining, PlaceMakers is encouraging anyone keen to jump on board to register soon. Whether you’re a seasoned scooter veteran or a first-timer looking for a challenge, the Southland Scooter Challenge promises a weekend to remember. 

To register, learn more, or donate to the cause, visit: www.southernchallenge.co.nz