ABOUT US
Skedaddle was conceived as a means of raising funds for conservation efforts in the Mandamus Preservation Reserve, a 3,300ha un-grazed area which includes a 600 ha QEII open space covenant, the largest in the Canterbury district. Named after the highest peak on the property, Mt Skedaddle (1704m), the race takes place entirely on private land.
The event offers members of the public the opportunity to experience the Island Hills trails as well as the many historical features of this high country station. All proceeds from the race will be used for conservation work with the long term goal being to one day reintroduce Aotearoa’s most iconic native bird, the kiwi.
THE RACE
Island Hills Station is a 4th generation family farm comprising 7,100 ha of private property with around half of the area running sheep and beef cattle. The remaining land is un-grazed regenerating native forest, subalpine and alpine areas known as the Mandamus Preservation Reserve, which includes a 600 ha QE II open space covenant, the largest in the Canterbury district.
To enable conservation activities such as pest, predator and weed control, the farm generates limited resources from Manuka honey, Beech honeydew and from tourist activities. Most of the conservation work is carried out by volunteers and recreational hunters.
The farm also includes 121 ha of Douglas Fir forestry plantation.
THE VENUE
Original homestead built in 1882
The Island Hills Station Walking Track, which has been hand cut over years of toil, follows historic horse pack tracks, mustering trails and natural stock routes. The track network has provided access into the wilderness regions of the farm for mustering stock, hunting and pest control. In 2004 Dan and Mandy Shand opened the Hurunui High Country Track to host visitors. By 2013 an expanding Manuka Honey business, other off-farm ventures and family commitments led to the closure of the track.
In 2020 an adapted version of the track was relaunched as the Island Hills Station Walking Track and is operated by Shaun Monk and Haley Lloyd.
THE TEAM
THE OWNERS
Current owners Dan and Mandy Shand, with their children Amalia and Hugh, run a diverse operation at the rugged Island Hills Station.
Since returning to manage the family farm, they have also created their own honey business taking advantage of the abundance of manuka and kanuka. Their hard yakka with a pick and shovel is what helped to establish the original trails.
These days you can find them out and about mustering stock around the mountains or sailing their catamaran around the oceans.
THE ‘BUSH JANITOR’
The Island Hills Station Walking Track is operated and maintained by Shaun Monk (aka the ‘Bush Janitor’) and his trusty assistant Haley Lloyd. Shaun left the corporate world and relocated to Island Hills Station in 2019 to re-develop the pre-existing Hurunui High Country Track into what is now known as the Island Hills Station Walking Track.
A keen outdoorsman, he has a wide range of knowledge on wildlife, plants, conservation, bush-craft and mountain safety. His knowledge of New Zealand's unique rural history makes for a great chat while hosting many guests to the property for walking or hunting adventures.
On race day you will find Shaun on the microphone spinning a few yarns and sharing a story or two about Island Hills Station! He even once ran the Kepler Challenge in 5hrs and 55 mins!
THE RACE DIRECTOR
An experienced Race Director and passionate trail runner, Rich Negus has been involved with Skedaddle right from its inception. With a background in sporting event management and experience in delivering numerous races across the South Island, Rich prides himself on delivering an epic athlete experience. Having experienced the Island Hills Station Walking Track first-hand, Rich is delighted to be able to help showcase this special part of Canterbury to trail runners and walkers alike.
On race day you will find Rich at the helm making sure that everything is running smoothly. His favourite part of the role is seeing those beaming smiles and hearing the many epic tales at the finish line!
THE EVENT MANAGER
One of the faces of Event Goals, Jon Holmes is an experienced event manager and two time marathoner himself. Having delivered some of Canterbury’s most iconic events (City2Surf, Christchurch Marathon, North Canterbury Wine and Food Festival), he’s no stranger to bringing a vision to life. With a love for the outdoors and making a difference, Skedaddle is the perfect recipe for his skills and passions.
On race day you will find Jon in the race village making sure that all athletes, spectators and vendors are well looked after. He prides himself on being a perfectionist on every detail, and making every event happen as seamlessly as possible.