Mangawhai Rocks, Rolls and Strolls!

Wildlife trails were explored, wine was savoured, food devoured and dancing appeared inherently mandatory in Mangawhai recently, as the 2017 Walking Weekend and Food & Wine Festival (F&WF) kicked off on March 25-26, entertaining over 1600 locals and visitors.

After spending the day trekking around Mangawhai’s scenic tracks and coastline, many walkers joined party-goers at Insley Street’s ‘The Olive Grove’ for ‘a high-powered, rockin’ show’ by Shane & The ShaZam Band and a showcase of some of the best food and wine the area has to offer.

Walking Weekend co-ordinator, Dorothy Freeman, says that once again Mangawhai community volunteers and supporters generously ‘stepped up’ to make the weekend a huge success.

“No matter which event people participated in, whether they were walkers, paddle boarders, kayakers, dancers, those who enjoyed a drink or two at the Food and Wine Festival, or spectators at the Troubadour Trail, our team of over 170 volunteers were on hand and prepared to go the extra mile to keep everybody safe and happy,” she says. “Visitors from far and wide enjoyed the hospitality, help, knowledge, kindness, and expertise.”

Organiser of the popular Troubadour Trail, Christina George, says feedback from walkers has been extremely positive.

“Had comments like ‘best ever’, ‘incredible value for money’, ‘can’t wait for the next one’ and people saying they will spread the word,” she says. “None of these comments would have been possible without the volunteers. We wish to extend our sincere gratitude for all your time, enthusiasm, professionalism and care in making the Troubadour Trail such an enjoyable experience for everyone.”

The event attracted the largest number yet of volunteer guides who led the walkers around the 32 trails including new kayaking and paddle boarding adventures, taking in Mangawhai’s, natural beauty, wildlife and coastal scenery.

Freeman says the organising committee wish to thank all who gave their time so willingly, from the Scouts who helped with parking and clean-up after the festival, to the Trackies for preparing and maintaining the walks and security at the F&WF, and the early risers who got up at 6am to prepare the Cavern Homes-sponsored Big Breakfast prior to the walks.

“We also appreciate the generosity of the local people who opened their gates, gardens, farms, orchards and even their sheds which they shared with our visitors and the trustees of the Thomas Coates estate for allowing us to enjoy Bald Rock,” Freeman says.

“These unique experiences are so special and our visitors really appreciate the opportunity. This great event continues to attract many new people to the area who are always astonished at the breadth of activities available here. By introducing new walks, we retain the interest. Thank you to everyone who helped make the 18th Walking Weekend another weekend to remember. See you all again next year!”

n Event organisers are always on the lookout for suggestions. If you have an idea, please contact mangawhaiwalkingweekend@gmail.com. All proceeds from the Mangawhai Food & Wine Festival go to the Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust to build and maintain local tracks.