1 February 2011
The Story that needs to be told
Sandmining in the Mangawhai Harbour began in the 1920s. Not until three years ago was it finally terminated. The clean white, fine, irreplaceable sand that had it origins in the Waikato River was taken to Auckland and used for a multitude of purposes. The mining company in the later years was, unbelievably, because of the environmental impact, half owned by the Northland Regional Council. To finally end this environmentally destructive industry took determination, expert knowledge and money. This is Jim Wintle’s story but a small group under the auspices of the Harbour Restoration Society carried out the amazing feat of finally stopping the sand mining at the harbour entrance. Along with the full story of the restoration and maintenance of the current harbour, the sand-mining story is one that also needs to be remembered and retold so it too becomes part of the folklore of Mangawhai.
There will always be people in Mangawhai who have not yet heard these stories so it is with great pleasure that the Mangawhai Walking Weekend offers the opportunity for those who have not caught up with this bit of Mangawhai history to hear these stories. What is more these are not, mere historians speaking, but the actual people who took part in these history making events. These are the people who have created a harbour that is loved by all who come here.
Look out for the walk on the brochure titled “How the Spirit of Mangawhai Saved the Harbour”
Another story we hope will unfurl after the 2011 Walking Weekend is that of a short history of the Village using landmarks as the basis. Ann Marshall, one of our Mangawhai swallows, (she and her husband Bernard come for six months of summer) is an experienced, trained guide in her home city of Liverpool, UK. She is leading a walk of discovery round the Village. Our popular local historian, Bev Ross, will be on hand to keep the detail correct. At the completion we look forward to an historical walking map and guide that we expect to publish. This should prove a great asset to the Information Centre as people as constantly looking for guides of this sort. Do join Ann on her walk and help her create a fabulous story. “A Village Heritage Trail”
Two walks are now full – Waipu Caves and Home and Garden Tour so check the web page before booking.
Walking Weekend brochures are at the Information Centre and on the web page at www.mangawhaiwalkingweekend.co.nz Food and Wine and Troubadour Trail tickets are at Bammas and Mangawhai Books and Gifts. |