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MANGAWHAI'S NO.1 NEWSPAPER
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Did you know.....(copy).jpg "sail rock outside (1)(copy)") Summer sees business boomingLocal businesses have been working long hours to offer services to visitors - Sail Rock's attractive extended outdoor area under the palms has become quite a feature, as has Harvest Cafe's claim to have the best iced coffee in town! In Wood St, Computers Plus has put more into the 'Plus' by slowly filling the void left by Mangawhai Electrical. Toasters, electric jugs, hair dryers, even hotel quality pillows are now available with the range increasing with demand. Fashions For You has opened, offering a range of clothing for all ages both casual and formal – including suits (from $75) for men. Accessories include handbags, jewellery, perfume, and Jasmyn says they are planning a fashion parade in the near future which will really show off just what she has brought to Mangawhai. It's not just a holiday business, Fashions For You has a year-long lease and plans to be around for quite some time! The mobile coffee shop at the Heads Beach has been kept very busy, their icy treats just what beachgoers crave. Queues have been extensive outside all the takeaway businesses, the bakery often sold out, along with Roasts To Go. AJ's Bakery in the Village which only opened late last year has been overwhelmed by the support! All good news for those prepared to put in the long hours required at this time of the year. Accountant Aaron Toddun has taken over the premises formerly occupied by Ray White on Molesworth Drive - the area is booming. Record crowd at gala The Summer Gala at and for the Domain on January 2 hosted a record number of visitors. Such a huge event requires a full years planning by the Domain Society trustees (all volunteers) so when it all comes together so well on the day they feel justifiably pleased. John Dickie in particular, organiser of the market stalls, often co-ordinates from wherever he is working in the Asia Pacific region – quite an achievement. On the day, many many local folk are involved with parking and gate duties, food stalls, raffles, and entertainment. Around $40,000 was raised this year, money needed to keep this wonderful facility owned by the people of Mangawhai in working order. Exhausting, but well done folks. Just a thought… A record number of holiday-makers in Mangawhai? Facilities are certainly being stretched as people clamber for a spot at the beach, boat ramps, and shops. A quick drive around between Christmas and New Year revealed properties covered with tents and cars... and a cynic could be justified in asking if those staying in 'another striking property' were concerned about not contributing to the costs for their sewage disposal, roads, footpaths, parks etc. Trapping helps fairy tern breeding Our critically endangered fairy tern population is also having a productive season. Six breeding pairs nested here in Mangawhai, with nine chicks hatching. To date, they have all survived, started to fledge, and will soon be out and about feeding. Trapping efforts undertaken by Reg Whale, funded by ASB Trust and NZ Fairy Tern Trust, have played a big part in ensuring a successsful season with his November tally 2 cats, 18 hedgehogs, 5 rats, 1 rabbit, and yes, 1 pig! The spit is a wildlife refuge, internationally recognised, so please treat the area with respect. Harbour display at museum Our harbour is the theme in a comprehensive photographic display now on at the Mangawhai Museum this Saturday and Sunday, 18/19 from 10am-2pm. All volunteers are putting in an extra effort as they work toward opening the museum in six months. Check out the foyer floor, the latest project to be completed. A Super Golf Tournament is planned for Friday February 7, with a $60 entry fee. Great prizes of course, and a fun way to fundraise. Entires to Christine Bygrave 431 2057, or email christinebygrave@gmail.com. Chance for historic cruise The scow Jane Gifford, now fully restored and based in Warkworth, was a regular visitor to Mangawhai in earlier days, and this month has excursions on the Mahurangi River – Saturday and Sunday 18/19, for 1 hour trips, and on Fiday 24 a special 2 hour excursion departing 12.30pm. Reservations necessary, phone Dave 027 484 9935 or 425 5006 or online at www.janegifford.org.nz. Golfers to support combined fundraiser Golfers, please support the Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) and Cadet Unit combined fundraising tournament on Friday 17th. A major volunteer effort continues with laying concrete paths in the park but they do need actual cash! Encouraging to see so many people using Mangawhai Park, and not just the skateboard bowls, court, and playground, but the many walking and bike tracks in the bush. Register early for walks Mangawhai Walking Weekend brochures are now available for the 2014 event scheduled March 28-30. It pays to register early if you want to ensure you secure a place on your chosen walks. The choice is wide! And of course, the Food & Wine festival on Saturday March 29 will feature Mermaids, one of New Zealand's most popular musical entertainment line-ups. Registration and tickets all available online www.mangawhaiwalkingweekend.co.nz. Info via email mangawhaiwalkingweekend@gmail.co.nz. Profits fom the Walking Weekend go to the Mangawhai Tracks Charitable Trust. ■ News and views to share through this column? Contact Jo Roberts 4314 711, email jo.roberts@xtra.co.nz
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AL FRESCO: Sail Rock patrons can enjoy a summer meal outside. |
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