A powerful new short film from Motorcycling New Zealand shines a light on the volunteers whose passion, dedication and countless hours make motorcycle racing possible.
The Unsung Heroes Keeping New Zealand Motorcycle Racing Alive
When the gate drops, the lights go out, or the first rider leaves the start line, most eyes are focused on the competitors. But behind every motorcycle event in New Zealand is an army of volunteers whose work begins long before the engines fire and continues long after the chequered flag falls.
From flag marshals and technical inspectors to club committee members, sign-on teams and event administrators, these volunteers are the foundation of motorcycle sport in New Zealand. Quite simply, without them, there would be no racing.
To mark National Volunteer Week 2026, Motorcycling New Zealand (MNZ) has released a beautifully produced short film titled Motorcycle Sport – Powered By Volunteers, shining a spotlight on the people whose dedication keeps the sport alive.
The first film in a planned series follows five volunteers carrying out very different roles within the sport. Viewers are taken from the pressure of managing a marshal team at the New Zealand Superbike Championship through to a young volunteer helping mark out an enduro course, highlighting the commitment, knowledge and passion required at every level of competition.
The film is a reminder that the strength of New Zealand motorcycle sport has always been built around local clubs and the people willing to give up their weekends to support them – a philosophy captured by MNZ’s mantra: Stronger Clubs, Stronger Sport, Stronger Future.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of our sport,” says MNZ Operations Manager Vicky Hicks.
“Every meeting, every championship and every rider pathway is supported by volunteers who give their time because they care deeply about motorcycling.”
Hicks says National Volunteer Week is an opportunity for the motorcycle community to recognise and thank the thousands of people who contribute behind the scenes.
“Their contribution creates opportunities for riders of all ages and abilities and helps strengthen our motorcycle clubs across the country. The sport runs because of volunteers, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they do.
“At every event, every club, every weekend, it is volunteers who keep the wheels of our sport spinning.”
With many clubs around New Zealand always looking for new helpers, MNZ says anyone interested in getting involved should contact their local motorcycle club. Whether it’s waving a flag, helping with administration, preparing a course or working in the pits, every role plays a part in keeping the sport moving forward.
Motorcycle Sport – Powered By Volunteers was filmed and edited by Derek Morrison, with additional footage supplied by Jason Beacham and Geoff Guthrie.
