Shane Riley and his partner Vicky from Taupiri are the lucky winners of an entry to the sold-out 2026 Kathmandu Coast to Coast. 

They were the successful bidders on the Trademe auction, where $4121 was donated to the Backcountry Trust. 

“We want to thank the countless volunteers who give their time for the trust, and the sponsors who help fund their work,” Riley said. “People who do what they can for organisations like the trust truly are the best of us.” 

He said the auction “spoke to them”. 

“The chance to be part of something that blends adventure, purpose and backcountry stewardship was too good to pass up. We never expected to win, but we were always going to push hard,” he said.

The Coast to Coast organisers wanted to support the BCT through this auction because the trust has been involved in upgrading Deception Hut on Goat Pass, which competitors pass.

“We have followed the BCT’s work for a while,” Riley said. “Their dedication to maintaining huts and tracks in some seriously remote places is incredible. You don’t realise how essential it is until you’re out there, soaked to the bone, and grateful for a sturdy roof over your head.”