The key to a long life is embracing love, happiness and exercise, according to Eveline McKenzie.
The sprightly 100-year-old said she had always led an active life, which was why she was encouraging people to participate in today's Round the Bridges event in Hamilton.
Although Mrs Mckenzie is not taking part in today's race, because of her poor eyesight, she has competed several times before and is a keen advocate of the benefits of walking.
"I have been involved in sports from the day I was born. I have been in some form of exercise and I have always been a good walker. Way back in the Depression years nobody had cars and we had to walk everywhere. In fact, I remember walking home from a few parties at 3am with the milkman.
"And I believe this is why I have had such a long life. I got a part-time job when I was 60 and I was running up and down four or five flights all of the time."
Mrs Mckenzie, who still cooks for herself and does her own shopping, was disappointed she could not take part in the race.
"I started with the Rua Pakeke Lions and also competed with Enderley Walking Group but because of my poor eyesight I don't think it is very wise to take part this year.
"I know what the riverbank is like and it would be a bit dicey with my eyesight the way it is."
This is the 67th time that Hamilton has held the Round the Bridges race and organisers are hoping to exceed last year's 4200 registrations.
So far the number of businesses entering a team has increased by 50 per cent with 95 already signed up.
This year the oldest entrant on the six-kilometre walk is 85 and the youngest entrant is 2 1/2 – but odds are the toddler will be in a pram for most of the event.
Money raised will be given to the McKenzie Centre, Child Matters and Arthritis New Zealand.
View article and picture here.
== Reported by Karla Akuhata of The Waikato Times
