Did You Know.......

 

MAZ is for all ages
There can't be many people in Mangawhai who haven't visited Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) on Molesworth Drive. There is something for all ages - little ones on the play equipment, bike riders on the concrete court honing their skills on striders or using trainer wheels, scooters, roller blades, and up on the more advanced streetscape area, speedy scooters and skateboards along with the talented boarders in the bowls. Children were spotted simply mucking about in the sand under the trees, using the flying fox platform as a stage, just doing what kids do when in such a fabulous space.

On the snake path there are little sponsorship plaques – one, instead of a name, inscribed with 'Live it, Love it, I'm doin' it.' So right.

All this has been achieved by committed voluntary effort, business support and donations, and with another $500,000 needed to complete all the planned stages of MAZ, more fundraising activities are being planned. If you can assist in any way, Colin Gallagher is the contact person.

The trustees are currently working with the Kaipara District Council (KDC) on changing the lease agreement so that the car park area can become the responsibity of KDC and the toilets can then be built. These were budgeted for in the 2014/5 annual plan, so should be well and truly ready for next summer.

The new date for the Bowl Jam is Saturday February 7 – well worth going along to watch what these highly-skilled skaters can do.

And for something completely different…
Te Whai Bay Wines, 367 King Road, is hosting a Spanish BBQ in the Vines on Saturday February 7 starting at 1pm – a 'long lunch' of three courses plus wine! Can you imagine how fabulous that will be? Tickets are $89pp, available from Eventfinda, Mangawhai Books & Gifts in Wood St, or from Te Whai Bay Wines.

Multi-sport events coming up
Sunday February 8 is for the fit – the annual Top Of the Rock walk/run/mountain bike event based around Baldrock in Kaiwaka. It's not too late to enter, but don't delay any longer. Email kaiwakasports@gmail.com or ring orgainer Cheryl Anderson 431 2051 or 027 346 2702. And as a bonus, the prizes are amazing!

Remember the Mangawhai Triathlon is scheduled for February 22 , so keep up that training.
 

Spotted…
… at Mangawhai Heads surf beach, an enthusiastic group taking part in the Aotearoa Surf School lessons. Surfing lessons just has to be a very popular gift idea for family members, especially when they are holidaying in Mangawhai, Te Arai, Langs or Waipu Cove. The surf school offers one-on-one lessons, or small groups, with fully qualified instructors, operating all year round. Look them up aotearoasurf.co.nz, phone 431 5760 or 027 250 7906.

Mangawhai GAS has winning formula
Ever wondered who picks up the prizes from those nationwide GAS competitions? GAS in the village say that Mangawhai patrons are great supporters with a local person winning a car last time. Now Richard Partridge has won a barbecue valued at $2500, and six others have $100 vouchers. It has been noted that of the approximately 350 GAS outlets, Mangawhai sends in the most entries! Gary, Sheila and staff are always so friendly and helpful, plus they really appreciate the support they receive from the community.

Bird report from Sioux
Two more fairy tern chicks have been banded in the Wildlife Refuge and will by now be trying out their wings. There may be another egg yet to hatch this season. There are reports of a cream-coloured fantail hanging around in the village – rather lovely. If you live in the Pearson St area keep an eye out for it. Exciting too, are more reports of tomtit on the Tanekaha Forest Track.

 

News and views to share through this column? Contact Jo Roberts 431 411 or email jo.roberts@xtra.co.nz

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