Levin band’s Big Dig at Waitārere Beach promises fun and prizes

The annual Waitārere Beach Big Dig returns on January 2 with a $8000 prize pool.

The Levin and Districts Brass Band is ready to “dig in” to its next event.

In January, the band’s 41st annual Big Dig is to take place at Waitārere Beach.

For the event, more than 300 discs representing different prizes worth a total of $8000 will be buried in the sand, with the community invited to come along and try to dig up a prize.

The top prizes for both the children’s and adult’s pits are watches. Other prizes include vouchers with a value between $50-100.

Band president Chris Craddock said the Big Dig would be as spectacular as the past 40 annual events.

“The band hopes for perfect weather on the day of the dig, under which conditions 1500 to 1700 people can be expected to participate in the event. The 40th-anniversary Big Dig in 2024 had the largest attendance ever recorded by the Levin band.”

The first event took place on Boxing Day in 1985.

“It has been held each summer for the past 41 years, providing a highlight of the season for the people of the Horowhenua.”

He said the event is made possible thanks to the community’s support.

“Once again, the band is indebted to the Horowhenua business community for their continued support of this popular annual event, donating many excellent prizes.”

With tickets only costing $4 each, musical director David Maas said the event will serve as a great day out for all.

“It’s a wonderful family event for young and old. Generations of holidaymakers and locals have flocked to Waitārere Beach each January 2 for a fun afternoon in the sun, with the opportunity to win a fantastic prize for a small outlay.”

The funds from the event will help the band purchase new instruments to expand its youth education programme.

The Details:

What: Levin and Districts Brass Band Big Dig.

When: Thursday, Janaury 2, 2025. 2pm start.

Where: Waitārere Beach.

Tickets: $4 each, available from 9am on the beach at the tent south of the main entrance.

Further information: Contact band president Chris Craddock via 027 410 2420.