Jean walks into sunset

 

The Mangawhai Walking Weekend is all over for another year and a deserved respite for founder and organiser Jean Goldschmidt.
“The end of another era for me,” says Jean “but it has finished with joy and a thrill that all is well.”

This year around 1200 walks were strode, trod, trudged or ambled by 570 walkers in typically brilliant weather which has been one of the features of the weekend throughout it’s 15-year lifespan where it has grown in size and stature to make Mangawhai the walking capital of New Zealand.
“The guides responded so well to all the instructions,” Jean adds, noting how generously people give of their time. “At first they think all the instructions a nuisance but most come round to seeing it is necessary for the smooth running of a big event,” referring especially to health and safety rules which must now be closely followed.

The Troubadour Walk with its eclectic mix of musicians and performers attracted 230 followers this year, which was a record.

Another record was set at the Food and Wine Festival where 950 walkers, art buffs and locals enjoyed rocking good music from The Mermaids plus an ever-increasing variety of locally produced foods and beverages.

Well-wishers gave Jean and husband Don a rousing send-off towards a little less stressful lifestyle.

Who knows what the future may hold for the Mangawhai Walking Weekend but with it’s growing band of followers and strong community spirit, like most of the regular walkers, we can expect it simply to keep on keeping on.

The Art Trail, held on the same weekend, adds more variety and options for both walkers and art buffs. This year saw several new artists making their debut on the trail and those of longstanding reported what they considered a record number of visitors showing interest in all mediums and thrilled to be able to view so much variety in such a casual atmosphere.

Visit mangawhaiartists.co.nz if you were unable to get around it all or want to locate a special piece. Next year may be too late.