Tens of Thousands Join Auckland’s Round the Bays 2013

It was estimated that 70,000 people joined Round the Bays 2013 on the sunny morning of 10th March. 12 members from Fo Guang Shan joined the crowd to participate in this popular annual event. This is the 41st Round the Bays and all proceeds are shared amongst different charities, from which Cystic Fibrosis Auckland received over $30000. This fund will be put into providing important nebulising devices, and allow 400 patients with hereditary disease to get treatment.

At 9:30am, as according to tradition, Auckland Mayor Len Brown led the count down and fired the starter pistol to commence the day’s race; he then joined the crowd to proceed toward St Heliers Bay. Amongst the numerous teams involved, many were dressed in a wide variety of uniforms, costumes and sportswear. ASB alone yielded 1163 members, and in total over 860 teams from different organisations, businesses and groups joined the event, which created a tremendously festive atmosphere. This charitable event also allowed the crowd to enjoy the coastal views and exercise their bodies amongst the green trees, which brought charities close to public life, thus gaining the enthusiasm of over tens of thousands people. Many Kiwis participated in this event annually, not only did it bring the communities together; it also helped the great cause of local body charities.