Source: Testicular Cancer NZ
It takes a special kind of human to grab a small bike (125cc or less), load up with a tent, pop on as many layers as possible and head off in the freezing cold at a blistering average speed of 60KM per hour!
But that’s exactly what an intrepid group of self-described “jolly good buggers” will be doing on the 9 th and 10 th of August – riding for young Kiwi men affected by the most commonly diagnosed cancer in their age group.
The Cold Kahuna is an annual charity ride organised by Hawke’s Bay fundraising group the Jolly Good Chaps, that sees courageous (or possibly unhinged) riders brave sub-zero temperatures as they travel from Auckland, Waikato, Tauranga, Wellington and Hawke’s Bay, to converge on Ohakune for a weekend of camaraderie, campfires, and scooter-fueled shenanigans – before heading home with frozen fingers and full hearts.
This year marks their second time riding in support of Testicular Cancer New Zealand – a charity dedicated to raising awareness, providing support services, and helping men detect cancer early, when it’s most treatable.
Among the riders is Tane Stubbs, a testicular cancer survivor and member of the organising committee.
“Having had testicular cancer myself, being part of the Cold Kahuna was a good opportunity to lead from the front – and to raise awareness where it counts,” says Tane.
He says supporting Testicular Cancer NZ is a way of giving back to others facing the same fight.
“Everyone has different ways of giving back. Any donation to any cause is great, but helping Testicular Cancer NZ means giving back to our men.”
But behind the mayhem is a serious message.
Around 190 New Zealand men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year. While highly treatable when caught early, 8 lives are still lost annually-often because the signs weren’t recognised or action wasn’t taken soon enough.
Diagnosed after a self-check and quick visit to his GP, Tane credits early action with helping him through his journey.
“I was worried when I found something, but because I’d done my homework on testicular cancer, I knew to go straight to my doctor. That decision made all the difference,” he said.
Testicular Cancer NZ CEO Peter Dickens says the Cold Kahuna ride helps spark a life-saving ripple effect that can make all the difference.
“This event helps spread the word and save lives. By encouraging men to talk about their health and know the warning signs, and by raising vital funds for those already affected, the riders are creating real impact. We’re proud and grateful for their support.”
For Glenn Fulcher, spokesperson for the Jolly Good Chaps, the Cold Kahuna’s power lies in its authenticity – mixing mateship with meaningful action. “You stop for a yarn, raise some dingaling, and keep it real by talking about health in a way that’s not preachy,” says Glenn. “And yes, there are loads of frozen blue-like balls on scooters in the middle of winter – but it’s all about helping men feel less awkward talking about something that could save their lives.”
The Jolly Good Chaps have made it easy to support the cause – each rider has a personal fundraising page, and donations from fri
