Auckland, Feb 1 NZPA - A team of cardiologists and health professionals will today test their pedal power as they start a two-week ride the length of New Zealand.

The Great Ride for Heart 2010 aims to raise $1 million for the Heart Foundation's Cardiovascular Research Fund.

It was organised to raise greater awareness of heart disease, the country's biggest killer.

Auckland University associate professor and keen cyclist Rob Doughty says cardiovascular disease would affect most New Zealanders at some point in their lives -- with most having already lost someone close because of it.

The cyclists start their journey in Cape Reinga today.

Their journey will cover 2117km and finish in Bluff on February 14.

Each of the 24 core riders has pledged to raise at least $10,000 through their personal online sponsorship pages. They will be joined en route by 43 relay riders, who have pledged to raise at least $1000 per leg. All riders will personally fund 100 percent of their journey.