Come and explore our magical back yard

 

The Mangawhai Walking Weekend, held Friday-Sunday March 27-29, is a festival of events and glorious walks exploring our magical Mangawhai community.

With 29 walks over three days there is plenty to explore that incorporates the coast, bush and rural landscapes, history and geology, art walks and so much more – even a special doggie walk!

This year we have four fascinating walks on private land, seldom accessible to the public.

On the Saturday there is Henrys Bush & Farm and Thornleigh Farm, two landowners with intriguing tales and the history of their precious land involving discovery of a long-abandoned waka, restoring and protecting bush blocks and birdlife. Both walks are thoroughly enjoyable!

On Sunday you can take a bush walk through the Marunui Conservation Block, highlighting the regeneration of native bush and its conservation programme. Part of this walks takes you through the areas where kiwi have established, see a demonstration of the listening devices used to monitor the kiwi health and behavior – exciting, fascinating and right on our doorstep.

A new walk, 10 acres in 10 years, is an insight on what can be achieved on small blocks, Four landowners tell their story of wind, drought, rabbits and restoring fertility to the land – a chance to exchange ideas on planning and planting.

For something gentler, Friday afternoon enjoy music and magic on the Troubadour Trail, a beautiful ramble around the picturesque Mangawhai estuary. Follow our troubadour as he leads you on a happy journey to mystery locations, and look out for the performers, you may hear them before you see them, children free.

Saturday afternoon’s lively Food & Wine Festival returns to the Olive Grove, Insley Street, opposite the school. Relax, unwind and be entertained by the fabulous Mermaids Dance Band, returning after last year’s sold out event. Local food and wine producers provide a delectable selection of goodies to enjoy.

Troubadour tickets $10, Food & Wine tickets $25 and can be purchased at Bammas and Mangawhai Books & Gifts. Walks can be booked online.

Leabourne Passenger Service will be operating a shuttle from the Surf Club to the venue and returning from 7pm Information and bookings online mangawhaiwalkingweekend.co.nz or call Dorothy Freeman 431 5950.

- Trish Whyte


DISCOVERY: Coastal walks are some of the most popular during the annual Walking Weekend.