Next month, Tanguy Nissou will take on a challenge to give back to Wānaka - the place he’s called home as a ‘working-holiday local’ - by biking over 600km to Christchurch to raise funds for local not-for-profit group WAI Wānaka.

“The landscapes of Aotearoa, from the mountains to the rivers, have shaped so much of who I am,” Tanguy said.

“Now, I’m taking on a big challenge to give back.”

He’s not doing it the easy way - Tanguy will be riding an old, classic bike, without any specialist gear.

“It will just be me, my legs and the open road,” he said. “It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest way is the most meaningful and that real change often comes through grit, resilience and connection to the land.”

Tanguy has chosen to support WAI Wānaka because of its work protecting water health in the Upper Clutha, and he hopes to raise $5,000 via a Givealittle page. 

“WAI Wānaka empowers local communities to understand their environment, recognise their impact and take meaningful action to care for the lakes, rivers and land in our region,” Tanguy said.

“They work with farmers, landowners, businesses, schools and volunteers to help build a future where ecosystems thrive and biodiversity can be restored.” 

WAI Wānaka CEO Cat Dillon said the organisation was honoured to be the recipient.

“600kms is no easy feat, even on a high-spec bike, let alone a classic,” Cat said. “We love this idea, and why he’s doing it.”

Tanguy plans to leave Wānaka the weekend of June 7-8 and hopes to arrive in Christchurch a week later.

“This ride is about more than just the distance,” he said. “It’s about showing that with determination and collective effort, we can protect the precious natural resources that make Wānaka and the wider region so special.”

Find Tanguy’s Givealittle page here.

PHOTO: Supplied