Sunday in Manawatū had a roar to it as men and women took to the roads on two wheels for various causes.

More than 100 women riders flooded into Bulls on Sunday afternoon as part of the Women Riders World Relay.

Founded in the United Kingdom, the relay involves women across the world taking part in long multi-day motorcycle rides.

The relay started in the north of Scotland in February, but made its way to New Zealand on the weekend, starting in Waitangi with a pōwhiri before embarking on a four-day ride to Invercargill. 

Ellie Arbuckle was among the riders on Sunday, and she said they came in all different ages and at a range of skill levels.

That meant a few pulled out of the Taupō to Wellington ride, as they went through the Desert Road shortly after it was hit by snow.

The ones who did make the ride surprised the tourists, having snow fights on the side of the road and learned a few skills, Arbuckle said.

"Everyone is really excited because they hadn't done snow [riding] before. Now, we can ride anywhere in New Zealand."

Arbuckle got into riding motorcycles 20 years ago when her husband intended to buy a bike. She had no interest in riding pillion, so learned to ride herself.

"My grandchildren think I'm the coolest grandmother God put breath in, because I have a Harley."

Women Riders World Relay was about giving women the confidence to get on a bike and creating camaraderie, but also letting motorcycle companies know women ride bikes, Arbuckle said.

A lot of the equipment was made for men, while women needed different gear for their body shapes and preferences, she said.

There were plenty of men out supporting the relay, with some riding from New Plymouth. There were also riders from overseas, including California and England.

A strong contingent of riders took off from Palmerston North on Sunday morning for the city's first Bikers in Blue event.

The event, organised by Anaru Tepania​, was held to raise awareness and support Prostate Cancer New Zealand.