Good  works noted in Citizens Award

 

 

Mangawhai’s Christine Bygrave is a local recipient of the recent Kaipara Citizens Awards.

Coming initially to the district as a farmers wife in 1965, Christine soon became involved in some of the voluntary activities that still epitomise the Mangawhai community today. 

Among the comments on her nomination were: ‘She has a vibrant personality which attracts those about her, be they family, friends or those at work’; ‘There is never any dissension toward others, and her abilities in her leadership roles are ‘legendary.’ 

“Having a family gets you involved in lots of things I didn’t know I could do and I have certainly learned a lot along the way,” she says.

Raising three children meant involvement in many clubs and activities was almost mandatory and saw her holding various offices in Brownies, Girl Guides, Cubs, Scouts and Ventures. 

Being farm orientated, a pony or two soon entered the mix and Christine became a foundation member of the Hakaru Pony Club, a thriving enterprise today. 

Other accolades include:
 Foundation member of Kaiwaka St John, an active member of Kaiwaka Plunket & Playgroup Centre, and Girl Guide leader.
 Chairperson of Otamatea High School BOT for 7 years.
 Organist at St Paul’s Church, Kaiwaka & St Michaels, Hakaru and other churches for 30 years.
 Instigated formation of singing group in Mangawhai.
 Active member of the Mangawhai Historical Society since 2007. 
 Chair of Museum BOT since 2015.
 Committee member of the Pioneer Village complex. 
 First woman president of Mangawhai Golf Club and Life Member.

Christine was always fully supported by husband Bill though no doubt there were discussions on occasions as to just how much she could pile on her plate. 

While one son lives in Auckland, a son and daughter-in-law run a farm-related business while daughter Paula, now managing the family farm, is former DP at Mangawhai Beach School so the Bygrave name is set to have an influence on the community for some time yet.

Other Kaipara Citizens Awards recipients were Terri Donaldson (Maungaturoto), Bryce Gatehouse (Ruawai), Noelene Gatehouse (Ruawai), Norma Ker (Dargaville), Haki Wihongi (Dargaville).

By just being involved Christine says she has learned a lot along the way.

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