Russell Lights 2 July 2014, Updated 2022
Celebrations and festivals in Russell have a chequer board past – here one minute and gone the next. Our clubs are a bit the same – overflowing with members one year, struggling to pay the bills the next. Maybe it’s inevitable in such a small community.
Many of our volunteers have a whole wardrobe full of hats. Some festivals we just tag along with – such as the ever popular Jazz & Blues festival or Country Rock. Other events are truly our own – Birdman, Walking Weekend, Battle of Kororāreka, Festival of Talent, Hellhole, Kororāreka Kulture Fringe, Oyster, the Tall Ships event and now Matariki. Some will soar briefly like a phoenix while others become enduring fixtures.
This weekend sees the Bay of Islands Walking Weekend. This event is in its 9th year and has many repeat walkers which speaks volumes in itself – being on many walkers annual “must do” list. The walks range from 2km to 21km, and include night-time kiwi walks, overnight stay out at Cape Brett, kayaking and walking, cycling and walking, three vineyard walks with many walks incorporating great food and settings. If you didn’t manage to try the Walking Weekend festival this year book early for next year as the favourite walks sell out fast https://boiwalkingweekend.co.nz/
We can never know how it will be next year, it’s either a Phoenix or a Fixture, but a festival is always fun for someone. The photo is from the 1996 Oyster Festival, with King Neptune (Noel Probestel) visiting to taste the oysters.
