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MANGAWHAI'S NO.1 NEWSPAPER
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Did you Know..........Track cutters laying a legacy
If anyone in Mangawhai deserves a medal it's that team of volunteer track cutters. Their current project is an ambitious one, clearing a track up to the old kauri dam above a series of waterfalls in the Brynderwyns. They have completed a sound route to the first waterfall, steps, ropes and rails where needed, and even a spot of rough concrete on rocks for better grip when crossing the streams. Stage two leads you on up to view the series of tiered waterfalls where you can get an idea of where the track to the dam will eventually take you. Surveyed, but not yet prepared, you have to admire these folk who have to carry all the timber and tools for an hour walk before they even begin work. When completed, the Waterfall Track will connect up with the Cullen Road end of Brynderwn stage of Te Araroa. But start exploring the Waterfall Track now; head up King Road, turn right at the T-junction (it is signposted, but easy to miss) and park in the designated area for the Tanekaha Track. Just over the swing bridge, turn left for the Waterfall Track, all well marked. Take your togs, and cool off in the pools. Remember NO DOGS, particularly important as the Maranui Conservation block has newly released kiwi. Ambulance station approval given More good news with the national St John building committee approving the Mangawhai Ambulance Station project. The lease agreement for the Mangawhai Park site has been sorted, and apart fom the final seal on resource consents, it's all go! It seems such a long time since the fundraising began, with hurdles to jump at every stage. But now, the team are organising preparation of the site which means felling some old pines and levelling etc. A big thank you is extended to the community for their continued support and patience. The Op Shop continues to contribute a large portion of the funds along with generous donations from clubs, businesses and other organisations. The more we raise, the less we have to borrow! So watch this space, or indeed, watch the site! Fairy tern funding Our critically endangered fairy terns don't know about the support they are receiving, but the NZ Fairy Tern Trust members certainly do. Their application to the ASB for funding for a trapper at Mangawhai has been approved, and that has to be very comforting news. The wee birds are struggling, and everything is being done to make things a little easier for them during the testing breeding/fledging season. And when you are out on the spit – a wildlife refuge – be mindful of the birds. The DoC warden, supported by volunteers, will provide you with information should you need it.
Community grants available And talking of grants, make sure the organisation you are involved with in Mangawhai gets a copy of the Mangawhai Endowment Lands community assistance policy and if applicable, applies for a grant. Applications close on Friday December 20. Call in to the office at The Hub in the village, or go online www.kaipara.govt.nz. The Mangawhai Endowment Lands account has contributed much to the development of Mangawhai over many years. Newcomers to the area probably have no idea that money fom this account was used to provide the local share of all the road sealing in Mangawhai Heads, the Molesworth Drive causeway, purchase of Mangawhai Park land (golf club and bowls), Wood St commercial area, harbour restoration and so on. Applications for this round of grants will be made in February. Changes for Commumity Trust Mangawhai Community Trust (which owns and administers the Recreation Centre) held its AGM recently, electing a new chairperson. Martin Hett, deputy principal at Mangawhai Beach School, has taken over from Tom Smith who has generously taken on the role of secretary. Janine Gilmore (Sport Northland) is treasurer, with retiring treasurer Sharan McNaughton continuing on as a trustee. Bammas, the sport and leisure store in the village, is a good place to get information on the trust, bookings, gym membership etc as Dave is a very active trustee. Sail Rock makes music Come along to Music Makers at Sail Rock, December 3, 7.30pm (the first Tuesday of the month). Come along to either entertain or be entertained. The first evening was extremely well-received and such a lot of fun. There is an a la carte menu if you wish to make a real night of it, plus host Margaret Fish is offering a special deal on pizzas and refreshments for Mangawhai Music Makers evenings. And did you know The popular band, Country Rock, is now based here in Mangawhai? Country, country rock, rock 'n'roll a specialty. They are available for hire (of course!) and you can contact them by email: urbancountryband@xtra.co.nz or by phoning Corinne 0274 179 099, Linley 0273 168 376. ■ News and views to share through this column? Contact Jo Roberts 431 4711 , email jo.roberts@xtra.co.nz. |
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