The Escarpment for Eric!

We're a team of teachers and leaders at Manawa Children's Village, taking on a challenging walk to raise funds for Eric - a 21-month-old who brings so much joy to our village. A rare chromosome condition, called 2p16.3 deletion, affects Eric's muscle tone and development. He has an incredible opportunity to attend an intensive therapy programme with NAPA (Neurological and Physical Abilitation). This targeted, early intervention could be life-changing for Eric and his whānau.

Therapy of this nature comes with a significant cost, and our village is rallying with fundraising efforts so that Eric has this opportunity to build his strength, confidence, and independence — and one day take those first unassisted steps. The families of our Village have been incredibly supportive, and now our staff team is 'stepping up' in support.

The Paekākāriki Escarpment Track is a 9–10 km track that runs between Paekākāriki and Pukerua Bay. The track climbs to around 220 metres above sea level and walkers navigate 1,200+ steps, two swing bridges, and long stretches of exposed hillside.

We chose this physically demanding walk (3-4hrs) to honour how challenging physical movement can be for Eric, and how hard he'll be working during his therapy, and are asking for donations as sponsorship. We're walking 9 May (weather dependent), and will keep Eric's smile, determination and courage in mind to spur us on!