Southland Hug a Rig 2025

On Saturday the 9th of August, the annual Hug a Rig Day was held at Waimumu Field Days. This year was their biggest yet, with 215 participants enjoying rides in 37 trucks and 17 classic cars, a great increase from last year’s 170. The smiles said it all, as shown in the photos above.

Thanks to funding from Hokonui Hauora, food and drinks were provided throughout the day, with over 450 coffees served and 110 kilograms of frozen chips cooked. The Rapid Relief team ran out of food by the end of the event. The River Valley Lions Club ladies did a fantastic job registering participants and handing out goodie bags. The lucky stick table, filled with prizes, was busy all day long.

It was inspiring to see volunteers helping wherever needed, and the drivers who travelled up to three hours to give rides did an exceptional job.