January 2015
The Makaawhio tent at the Kūmara Races was well attended, with whānau visiting throughout the day. Dressed for the occasion and with the usual sumptuous array of kai, good company and a few good punts the day was enjoyed by everyone.
A few days later, we set up a tent for the first time at the Hokitika Races. It was an afternoon event with heaps of activities to keep both the tamariki and pakeke engaged. It was a great way to spend another sunshine-filled day and to support another local event.
Then on 17 January, having lost a few of the potential team at the last minute, we entered a team of four hardy individuals to represent Makaawhio in the Sand Dunes Golf Classic, an annual social golf tournament, played on the Hokitika Beach.
Paired with a team of Shrek impersonators, our team persevered with the long jaunt from South Beach back to Hokitika, with only a few lost golf balls and a bit of sunburn. Team Champ for the day – first-time player Maria Russell – was able to hit her golf ball across the Hokitika River…and not into the river like the rest.
Dressed for the races. From left, Rachel Forsyth, Marie Mahuika-Tahuaroa, Julie Zwies, Maria Russell, Pari Mahuika, Helen Rasmussen.
Team Makaawhio golfers from left Julianna Zweiss, Maria Russell, Corey Mahuika and Rachael Forsyth.
From left, Tumuaki Susan Wallace, Maria Russell and Selina Mason.
Waiting for the next race.