Crazy costumes at the ready

The madcap Matakana Fruitloop is back next month and organisers are advising would-be ‘loopers’ to register early.

Numbers are strictly limited for the seven-kilometre walk and run through private vineyards, orchards and olive groves on Saturday, March 3.

Event organisers, The Matakana Community Group, says Fruitloop 2012 will be bigger and better than last year with great bands, more wine tasting and fantastic after-match food and wine festivity at the Matakana Country Park.

Spokesperson Ras Sutherland says the emphasis is on even more enjoyment for everyone.

Last year’s inaugural event attracted more than 600 walkers and runners despite the wet weather and participants were enthusiastic about the one-off opportunity to enjoy some of Matakana’s most stunning private properties.

Carolyn Ward, of Auckland, said she felt like she was in Tuscany, while Siobhan Hamlet, also of Auckland, compared the maze-like hedges and hidden houses to Alice in Wonderland.

Local band The Ukulele Ladies was a particular crowd pleaser, playing in a secret glade at the base of the walkway track.

The event raised more than $20,000 for the Matakana to Omaha Walkway, from which a contribution was made to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal. Proceeds this year will go towards the next stage of the walkway, from Takatu Road to Tongue Farm Road.

Participants who dress in crazy costumes stand a chance to win some great prizes. “The Fruitloop is a real community event. We are especially grateful for the generous support of local landowners and our silver sponsors – The Sound FM, Richard Wintle of Barfoot and Thompson, Turners and Growers, and Gull Matakana.”

The Matakana Fruitloop will be held on March 3, from 2pm, starting and finishing at the Matakana Country Park. Entry costs range from $15 to $30.

Photos and updates are available at www.facebook.com/matakanafruitloop. To enter online, visit www.matakanafruitloop.co.nz