An informative interview all about the Brass Monkey Rally broadcast on Otago Access Radio by our very own John Willems.

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Come to Central Otago, an area known as having a ‘World of Difference’ and join us at the Brass Monkey Rally. This is one of New Zealand’s best known and longest running Motorcycle Rallies where 1500 – 2000 motorcyclists gather annually at Oturehua to celebrate motorcycling in one of New Zealand’s coldest places to enjoy a large bonfire, live band, various events and displays which makes this Rally memorable. 

Winter riding conditions apply this means be aware of frost, ice, snow, as well as gravel being scattered over the road surface – motorcyclists need to be wary of road conditions – ride to the conditions – there are no old bold motorcyclists. 

The 2014 rally will be the 34th Brass Monkey Rally with a small group of hardy motorcyclists having attended all the rallies thus far and have the badges to prove it.

While it is good for the organisation of the rally to have an idea of numbers via pre-paid entries, most of the rally attendees make the decision on the day – more so the locals. We will be using the pre-entry on-line entry method which we successfully trialled last year – this assists in speeding up entry onto the site. 

It is cold and it is important that people dress for the cold – some people do not appreciate how cold it can get at the Rally and that road conditions and the weather can change. This area holds the record for both the coldest and hottest temperatures for New Zealand.

Free soup and apples are provided to ‘Ralliests’. 

One of the main issues with people on the Sunday morning is a flat battery because of the cold – ensure your motorcycle is in good condition with a good battery. 

Because of the cold you must be prepared. This includes warm clothing, good gloves, hat, good footwear/ motorcycle boots, good sleeping bag, tent and cooking utensils are required if you are thinking of being self-sufficient. 

Bring yourself and your bike and enjoy our rally with the other enthusiasts and catch up with like-minded motorcyclists - but leave your attitudes at home.

The Rally site is open on Friday but facilities are limited.

The rally is organised by the Otago Motorcycle Club with the Oturehua Winter Sports club people, who provide the food for the rally and assist with organising the event.

Trail riders: the club will provide an escort for the last few kms to the site on Saturday and from the site on Sunday morning on sealed roads for unregistered Trail bikes. Plan to arrive on site during daylight hours – the escort is approved by the Police - please do not abuse it or we may lose this opportunity. Check website for more information about the escort.  

• NO glass is Permitted on the site.
• NO BYO Alcohol is Permitted
• Motorcycles only on site.
• NO Cars - NO Dogs
• NO BIKE- NO BADGE
• No Patches or attitudes – leave them at home

30 year badge is being offered again this year as well as the usual 10 and 20 year badges.

If you are interested in joining this great New Zealand motorcycling challenge then contact the Otago Motorcycle Club now.  

Go to www.brassmonkeyrally.org.nz where you can save time and money by entering online. 

Contact the Otago Motorcycle club on 03 4775549, fax 028 255 14828 or email us at: chairman@brassmonkeyrally.org.nz or sec@brassmonkeyrally.org.nz.  

See you at Oturehua during Queens Birthday Weekend.