One Mahurangi – When will the sun shine?

It feels like one minute, we’re stepping into spring, and the next, we’re right back in the middle of winter!

I’ve spoken to a number of business owners recently, and there seems to be a collective feeling that everyone is just waiting – almost like we’re all in the starting blocks, waiting for the signal so we can finally get going.

I often hear that when the sun is shining, people are out and about, and business picks up. Then, we have days when the storm rolls in and everyone stays home.

But there are positive signs that we’re moving out of this frustratingly slow period. Interest rates are coming down, and local real estate agents tell me that enquiries from first-home buyers are increasing.

Developers are also starting to show more interest. These are all encouraging indicators, and I believe that with a good stretch of fine weather, other businesses will see an uptick in activity as well.

So, the question is: are you ready for it? Is your stock ready? Are your premises looking their best? Are your staff prepared? Have you thought about how to attract more foot traffic?

Here are two ways you can get things moving:

Kowhai Festival, October 19

Some retailers tell me this can be one of their slowest days, but it doesn’t have to be. Put a table outside on the footpath and offer special prices on old or slow-moving stock.

If you’re not expecting people to come into your shop that day, get out into the crowd! Hand out vouchers offering a deal if they return after the festival. Make the event work for you.

Santa Parade Family Day and Carols in the Park, December 7

This year, these events are combining into one big day of celebration. The parade will start at 2pm and will finish down at Baxter Street by Lucy Moore Park for the prizegiving. After that (weather permitting), we’ll have family-friendly games, music, food trucks, and a coffee cart. Carols in the Park will kick off at 6.30pm and run until around 8.30 or 9pm.

Let’s make December 7 a Market Day in town! Encourage shops to put tables out, offer specials, and get into the festive spirit. It’s a great opportunity to bring some energy into the town as we gear up for Christmas.

As always, there’s plenty happening around Warkworth. And when the sun does finally shine, our town will be buzzing even more. Let’s keep as much spending as we can right here in town: Buy Local, Employ Local, Love Local.