Jack (left) and Alfie Lake were among the most colourful pirates. The Alach family of Stanmore Bay. The first Kids’ Treasure Hunt on Stanmore Bay Beach drew a big crew of pirates. Left, real treasure ($5 in gold coins) went to successful map-readers and diggers.
Finding buried treasure on Stanmore Bay Beach at the inaugural Kids’ Treasure Hunt involved following clues and a map on Facebook but also plenty of good old fashioned digging in the sand.
More than 100 children and their families, many dressed to the pirate theme, took part in the treasure hunt on Saturday, December 2.
The event was organised by local business Kiwi Assist.
There were 12 maps leading to treasure and Kiwi Assist co-director Matt Sturge says that only a core, dedicated bunch searched for the entire two hours.
Whoever found the coloured iceblock sticks hidden in the sand and surrounding playground and reserve areas exchanged them for bags of real gold coins. Sixty bags of treasure were given out and there were also lolly scrambles and even a money scramble at the end. Spot prizes included six for pirate costumes.
It was a lovely morning to be on the beach, so even the little ones who abandoned the search to dig in the sand with their swords, paddle in the water or spend their treasure on icecream, had a good time.
Matt hopes the treasure hunt will become an annual event.
