Sign In / Register
The annual Mahurangi Community Christmas Lunch is once again being held at Snells Beach this Monday, December 25 for anyone looking for a some company or festive fun.
What started out as a one-off breakfast in the Mahurangi East Community Centre in 2018 has grown into an annual lunch that regularly attracts up to 70 people to the beach by Sunrise Boulevard.
The event is the brainchild of Snells Beach woman Moana Hehepoto, who decided to start the event with her three daughters after facing tough times herself in the past.
“I can’t believe it’s been six years and looking through the photos just fills my heart with joy and reminds me of the day my children and I decided we would step out and do this, because this is what Christmas means to us,” she said. “Sharing, giving and including everyone around us, coming together to celebrate as one family, one community. It’s been fun, we love it.”
She said moving the lunch from the community centre to the beach was a happy accident brought about by the pandemic.
“When covid happened, we went to the beach and everyone preferred it. It’s more family friendly, more relaxed and everyone stays longer. We have activities, games, presents, a lolly scramble and the whole community just gets involved.”
Food and drink is provided free, but if anyone is able to bring along a drink, salad or dessert to share, that is always welcome.
Moana said it was the community and local businesses that made the lunch happen, and she expressed her gratitude to Warkworth Butchery, Sarah at The Warehouse, Community Shop, Savans Bakery, TTT Plumbing & Drainlaying, Homestyle Catering, Jin Jin, Ravish, Liquorland and the local police for their support.
“I would really like to acknowledge them and thank all the individuals that have donated and helped on the day, they are all part of making this community Christmas lunch possible,” she said. “Everyone joins in, it’s a real family.”
Donations of gifts can be left at Warkworth Police Station until Friday, December 22 and Moana also needs help with getting some chilly bins, gazebos and trestle tables. Anyone who can help can contact Moana on 0210 246 1732.
