While Whanganui is not my ancestral home, I have ties to this place through my wife and her whānau.
In the distant past my mother and father moved here for work and my younger siblings finished off their schooling here.
Being a teacher and the principal of Whanganui City College, I have been able to establish connections throughout the Whanganui community and they have benefited my professional growth, and the weekend is a great way for me to see the community and witness its growth.
The Vintage Weekend is a celebration of Whanganui and it is important to all of us in this city, Māori, Pakeha and everyone of all races and cultures.
So, Whanganui Heritage Weekend ... tumeke!