Newcomers step up for Mangawhai walking event

Bookings for the 19th annual Mangawhai Walking Weekend opened last month and organisers are pleased at the number of new walkers who have signed up for one of the nearly 30 events on the programme.

Unlike previous years, the weekend will start on Thursday, March 15 with a strenuous eight-hour walk designed for enthusiasts.

The ever-popular Troubadour Trail will be held on Friday, March 16, when walkers will be entertained as they stroll along the Mangawhai Harbour edge. It is a walk that is suitable for most ages and abilities.

Saturday brings a full day of events from bush to beach and surf, including several new events such as the Learn to Surf and Tanekaha Botanical Track. All walks will finish in time for the Food and Wine Festival at the Olive Grove, in Insley Street, from 3pm-7pm.

A further 10 events are available on Sunday morning and walkers will have the opportunity to start the day with a sumptuous breakfast at the Mangawhai Domain.

All walks are pre-booked and no bookings will be accepted on the day.

To see a full list of walk options, visit mangawhaiwalkingweekend.co.nz