From wicked Western Stars to gleaming John Deeres and even polished Pontiacs, they all arrived en masse to support the 15th annual Hug A Rig day held at the Southern Field Days site near Waimumu. The sense of community spirit and resulting smiles on the recipients’ faces said it all.

Organised by Diane Elstob and husband Ian, the Hug A Rig day is all about providing youngsters facing lifelong medical conditions – both physical and intellectual – and their families with an opportunity to go for a ride in a cool rig, big or small.

This year’s event welcomed no fewer than 170 participants through the doors, and with 42 trucks, a blend of hot rods, classic cars and a couple of big farm tractors to boot, it sure kept the willing passengers busy jumping from one ride to the next.

Looking about the venue, you could not help but be extremely impressed with the level of organisation. Although the weather was mild and dry, the use of the Southern Field Days covered arena kept the guests protected from the elements, and also made for an enjoyable area to enjoy the generous cuisine offerings that were available, as well as visit and interact with the various support organisations that were on display.

Diane praised the commitment of the public who get in behind the event every year. “It is a worry for me every year whether everyone will turn up – will there be enough trucks? – but then, on the day, they all start rolling in. ”It’s a great sight to see, everyone comes together and just gets in behind it and makes it run smoothly,” she says.

Representing the New Zealand Police, senior sergeant Gary Iddenten of the Gore station could not agree more. “It is fantastic joining in here and being a part of the Hug A Rig day. It is rewarding to see the commitment from the local trucking companies and their drivers, giving up their time and providing the trucks, and it’s a fantastic opportunity for the public to interact with the trucks. You see the kids’ faces just light up. It is some quality time out for these families; they are faced with real challenges, and this event is also a little respite for those caregivers as well, because they really are the hidden saviours.”

The one-day event, held in early August, is a solid year in the planning. “As soon as we pack up this day, we take a breath and start planning the next one.

“It is a huge amount of work, the volunteers that come together to make it happen are all just amazing, but what makes it all worthwhile is when you see the smiles on the faces of the children and their families, that’s what it is all about,” says Diane.