Trust thanks Mangawhai community

Members of the newly-formed Mangawhai Walking Weekend Charitable Trust, which now organises and administers one of Mangawhai’s biggest annual social outdoor events, is happy to heap praise on walkers and volunteers who were involved in the 2015 event in March.

Hundreds of walkers enjoyed 33 guided walks over the two days.

The Food & Wine Festival was sold out again this year with revelers dancing in the Olive Grove to the classic sounds of The Mermaids Dance Band – spoilt by local providers who presented delicious food and wine.

Around 100 dedicated volunteers helped as guides and ‘trackies, preparing and maintaining the maze of walking tracks, many year-round.

“Every event in Mangawhai is reliant on an army of volunteers and without their enthusiasm local events would just not happen, so a big thank you to our volunteers,” says Trust spokesperson Dorothy Freeman.

Walkers fuelled up at the Big Breakfast on Sunday with a buffet of delicious fruit platters and good old bacon, eggs and all the delicious trimmings.

SeniorNet provided packed lunches both days for those who needed them, a fund‐raising opportunity for their own organisation.

“It was particularly pleasing to have 100 new walkers registered that had not previously attended the weekend,” says Dorothy. “This is most encouraging for the future growth of the event.”

The Walking Weekend showcases many aspects of the community, giving an opportunity to stay and explore, enjoy local hospitality, take a rural break from city life, and share time with friends.