Jade Uru, left, Gina Matiu and Annette Matiu.
The Paihia Mother's Day Fun Run/Walk was a runaway success with 1130 competitors treated to a near perfect day on Sunday.
As well as the funster family runners and walkers, serious athletes in the Jennian Homes' sponsored event were supported by Northland Olympians, rower Jade Uru and sailor Sharon Ferris-Choat.
Jennian Homes Northland general manager Jody Yakas said it was one of 30 events Jennian was involved with nationally on Mothers Day, the aim to get families out together to raise awareness about women's health.
"We are all mindful of the toll that results from heart health issues, and Jennian Homes is proud to champion the need for better heart awareness in New Zealand,'' Yakas said.
The course in the Sport Northland organised event, part of a series of run/walks, went from Paihia, past Waitangi Golf Course, through the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to the finish line in Paihia.
Meeting of birds in Paihia
The 2018 New Zealand Bird Conference and the 79th Annual General Meeting of Birds New Zealand will be held in Paihia over Queen's Birthday weekend.
The conference will entail two days of scientific papers and workshops, with field trips to local birding highlights on the third day. The AGM will be held on Saturday afternoon.
The conference again aims to continue work of previous conferences in making the conference the premier event for highlighting new research findings on New Zealand birds.
It will also provide opportunities for discussion, networking and workshops for bird researchers and birders in New Zealand.
Several local speakers will share some of the latest research knowledge, along with members of Birds New Zealand, otherwise known as the Ornithological Society of New Zealand Inc, and other researchers from across the country.
Autism and sensory issues to be discussed
The Children's Autism Foundation will be in Kaikohe for two days of workshops and one-on-one support for families on June 1 and 2.
On June 1, Understanding Autism and Sensory Issues will be an informative, relaxed workshop for people who live or work with children on the Autism Spectrum from 3.30-6pm.
One hour Outreach (one on one support) appointments can also made for that day but are limited and a place cannot be guaranteed.
The topic on June 2 will be Hands On Autism, a full day workshop to learn practical tools and strategies to implement in the home, school and wider community.
Both days' events will be held at Hiwa-i-te-Rangi Teen Parent Unit, 24 Purdy St, Kaikohe.
Children's Autism Facilitators will be Gera Verheul, psychology and behaviour specialist, Christine Farquharson, occupational therapist, Arletta van den Bosch, family and child counselling. Registrations on the website www.autism.org.nz, or email enquiry@autism.org.nz .
Waimamaku a talent hub
Tiny as it is, the small south Hokianga community of Waimamaku is massive when it comes to local talent.
The range of local artistic, holistic and fantastic talent will be showcased and celebrated at the Waimamaku Artisans Fair on June 3, the Sunday of Queen's Birthday weekend.
Of particular significance locally are woodcarvers and flax weavers, continuing a long tradition of those arts in the district.
As some of the older artisans retire, their reputations and skills will pass as well, and the fair is to celebrate their work and contribution in local, national and international spheres.
One of particular note is Allan Gale who has lived in Waiotemarama for many years, working in various media. Beginning with wood carving of bowls and platters, he later included chair making, bone carving,and relief sculpture.
He is famous for his multiblock engravings which grace many a gallery and private collection. Gale's creativity has extended further as well, into the World of Wearable Arts several times. In 2007, he won the "Man Unleashed" section with his entry "Ten Breasted Suitcase".
As well as exhibitions and demonstrations, sales of locally produced goods, from food to fibre, will also be available at the fair.
There will be a fun cupcake decorating and a continuous workshop for children to make jewellery - or other things. The Waimamaku Artisans' Fair, Sunday, June 3, from 10am-3pm, Morrell's Cafe carpark and Waimamaku Hall.
To participate by having a stall to demonstrate and or sell work, contact myss.janet@gmail.com, or phone Nadia 022 405 8679.
■ Do you have some Bay of Islands and mid-North news to share? Please contact
Lindy Laird who is filling in for Peter de Graaf while he has a break. Email
lindy.laird@northernadvocate.co.nz or reporters@northernadvocate.co.nz, or
phone the Kerikeri office, 09 407 3287.