Tweed suits, polished boots and the low rumble of vintage engines will once again roll through Tauranga next month, as the city joins a global movement raising awareness for men’s health.

The Tauranga edition of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride returns on May 17, with co-organiser Darren Leggatt encouraging riders and spectators alike to get involved in what has become one of the world’s most stylish charity motorcycle events.

“We keep the route a secret, but we will be in Bethlehem around lunchtime – about 11.30am – so people can come and have a look at the bikes,” Leggatt said.

While the full route remains under wraps, as is tradition, riders can expect a carefully planned journey through the city’s streets, designed with both safety and spectacle in mind. Despite Leggatt and co-organiser Damian Fleming being unable to ride this year, they have already reviewed the course to account for roadworks, closures and traffic conditions.

“We tend to stay off the highways,” Leggatt said. “We’re riding in suits and stick mostly to city streets and lower speed zones, with safety always the priority.”

Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride co-organiser Darren Leggatt is looking forward to seeing riders dressed in style for this year's event. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

The ride typically attracts between 150 and 200 participants locally, with previous years peaking at around 220 riders. However, Leggatt acknowledges that economic pressures may impact numbers in 2026.

“With petrol prices and the cost of everything, things are a bit tight this year,” he said. “We’re not expecting huge numbers, but it’s still about getting out there and supporting the cause.”

That cause is at the heart of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, which raises funds and awareness for men’s mental health, suicide prevention and prostate cancer research. Riders register online via the official website, with a mandatory $15 donation to take part, and are encouraged to fundraise further through personal sponsorship.

Held globally on the same day, the event sees tens of thousands of riders in cities around the world don their finest attire and take to the streets in a celebration of style, community and compassion.

Founded in Sydney in 2012 by Mark Hawwa, the ride was inspired by an image of fictional advertising executive Don Draper astride a classic motorcycle in a sharp suit — a concept that quickly evolved into a worldwide phenomenon. From just 2500 riders in 64 cities in its first year, the event has grown to attract more than 100,000 participants globally, raising millions of dollars annually for men’s health initiatives.

Tauranga joined the movement in 2015 with just over 50 riders, raising more than $9000. Since then, the local ride has steadily grown, both in numbers and community support, becoming a highlight on the city’s events calendar.

Beyond the fundraising, the ride is a visual spectacle – a rolling parade of classic and custom motorcycles paired with dapper fashion with participants encouraged to visit Tauranga Menswear and Bond & Co. The theme is embraced wholeheartedly, with riders sporting everything from tailored tweed suits and silk vests to bow ties, waistcoats and carefully groomed moustaches.

Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride co-organiser Darren Leggatt said riders will be dressing in style for this year's event. Photo / Kelly O’Hara

“We’ve had some fantastic outfits over the years,” Leggatt said. “People go all out – imported suits, sponsored gear, really bright and wonderful styles. It’s very Peaky Blinders-inspired a lot of the time.”

And occasionally, a twist.

“We even had a Jedi last year. Still very dapper – just representing the Jedi faith.”

The bikes themselves are just as diverse, ranging from early war-era machines to modern classics, scooters and sidecars, all united by a shared sense of character and craftsmanship.

As always, organisers are working with local authorities to ensure the event runs smoothly, with safety plans and route checks forming a key part of the preparation.

For those keen to take part, registration is essential, with details provided only after signing up through the official Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride website.

Whether riding or watching from the roadside, Leggatt said the message remains the same.

“It’s about getting out there, looking sharp, and supporting something that really matters – men’s mental health and prostate cancer research.”