Time to dust off the running shoes, fill the water bottles and grab family or friends to take part in the Flying Mullet Papamoa Hill Challenge.

In its second year, the annual fundraiser organised by the Papamoa Lions Club has already proved to be a popular event.

Last year 200 people took part, with all funds raised going to Papamoa Volunteer Fire Brigade, said event spokesman Steven Jensen.

The challenge is to walk to the summit in Pāpāmoa Hills Regional Park 10 times in a five-week period, from October 5 to November 9.

There is no pressure: it doesn’t matter how long it takes or how far up the hill you go each walk, you just need to do it in the allocated five weeks, said Jensen.

The walking track has been well maintained by Bay of Plenty Regional Council and is 2km long, said Jensen, who added that participants will not only be fundraising but also improving their fitness and health.

“Halfway up you’ll have the challenge of 120 steps, but there will be a bench seat for a quiet rest waiting for you at the top.”

All funds raised from entry fees go to chosen causes. Advertising and time spent on organising the fundraiser are covered by the wonderful sponsors.

“Last year we had a 90-year-old participating, who really enjoyed the challenge,” said Jensen.

“I myself have been walking up this hill for the past two years and have lost 20kg!”

Papamoa Lion Steven Jensen invites people to enter the Flying Mullet Papamoa Hill Challenge. Photo / Brydie Thompson

This year organisers hope to attract more participants, and funds will go to TriSassy and Papamoa youth to help create programmes that boost physical wellbeing, emotional growth, self-confidence, and community connection for rangatahi (youth).

Jensen said TriSassy is for girls aged 11-13 who don’t participate in sports but want to be active in some way, while having fun with peers and making new friends.

A previous participant said the hill challenge is all about community and also the youth of Pāpāmoa.

“I also love the reaction we get when we are in our shirts climbing up there, it’s amazing, rather unbelievable. You’re challenging yourself, you’re challenging your mates, you’re taking time out of your day, you get your partners involved, it’s a special time and a good challenge.”

Entry fees are child $15, adult $30, and $50 per family – register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1568460380219?aff=oddtdtcreator

Mark Grant, Sue McCowan, Steven Jensen, Audrey Jensen, Ross McCowan and Lawrence Millington invite people to enter the Flying Mullet Papamoa Hill Challenge. Photo / Brydie Thompson