This was a fairly special way to spend a Sunday afternoon – a concert and picnic in the Redwoods at Te Mata Peak. This involved an afternoon walk from the Village Apartment and a short hike into the Park was rewarded by an amazing cathedral like setting.
An appreciative crowd gathered to listen to Riverhead Slide, a great local blues band. Sausages were provided by the award winning Village Butcher for those of us who hadn’t visited the Hastings Farmers Market that morning to source the local produce.
By the way the concert was in support of the Te Mata Park Trust. The Trust has long had a vision of establishing a Visitor & Education Centre within the Park, to ensure the value of this wonderful community asset is maintained and protected.
To be located at the Main Gates to the Park, the Centre will be a building of national architectural significance, designed by award-winning New Zealand architect Chris Kelly. It will be a purpose-built facility focusing on the Park and its unique attributes, with information on Te Mata Park’s geology, ecology, history and cultural significance, as well as providing some practical amenities and a focal point for the many users of the Park. Check out their website and other activities at Te Mata Peak.
On Saturday morning we happened upon the Hikoi and Blessing of the ground where the centre is to be built while on a walk up to the Peak. It was quite a unique experience to crest the brow of the Peak and listen to the legends and stories of Ngati Kahungunu.
Just wish we had done our homework and could have been there for the dawn ceremony.
Next weekend we have the Triple Peaks Challenge which is a 50km ultra marathon that sees people run, mountain bike or walk Te Mata Peak, Kahurānaki and Mt Erin. Village Apartment will participate, but only as part of a 6 person walking relay! A strong focus on a Hawkes Bay wine at the finish will be a priority.