A Word from the Mayor

The next month or two symbolizes the character of our communities with a range of fabulous events to attend.

Over the weekend the Hurunui Race and Gala Day hosted at the Historic race track on Medbury road. This site is steeped in history with the first race meeting being held on Saturday 11th April 1874 however it did not become an official race course until 1894. One of the characteristics of the event is the outstanding sponsorship that is provided by businesses big and small across the Hurunui District. It is of note that despite 2024 being a tough economic time for many it did not dampen the support and neither did it dampen the attendance on the day. It is predicted that approximately 3000 were in attendance with so much to entertain the hugely participatory crowd.

Of course, we are also very fortunate to look forward to the Amberley Markham Street Festival, then our Autumn show season with Amuri, Cheviot and Hawarden A & P shows, on three consecutive weekends in March and with the North Canterbury Wine and Food Festival, also, we are spoilt for choice so there is heaps to plan and prepare for.

While we look even further into the year of 2025 we can look forward to the opening or reopening of the Soldiers Block, on ANZAC DAY in April. Being part of the Queen Mary Hospital site in Hanmer Springs this significant milestone will breath new opportunity back into this historic building and offer the opportunity to reflect, honour and remember the rich and meaningful history of the site.

I am certain that many of our locals will also be taking on the challenge of the Coast to Coast race either as an individual or a in a team event, this is the culmination of many hours of coaching and training. I wish you all the very best not only are you challenging your physical character but also your mental stamina, I wish you all well for a successful event.

Many of you may have sparked your interest in the recent media article when our colleagues at Southland District Council are considering and planning to revert some of their significant roading network back from a sealed network to gravel. It is certainly interesting to watch from a distance how other local authorities consider and determine what is the best way to manage limited resources.

I am planning to reignite the “Meet with Marie” sessions throughout the district, and I welcome you to drop in and have a chat or if that doesn’t suit, please make an appointment so we can consider any issues on your mind.

Have a wonderful week.