Opononi New Year's chopping champs a goer

For more than 100 years people have been coming to the beautiful Hokianga seaside settlement of Opononi on New Year's Day for a special event.

Known as 'The Chops', the Opononi Axe men host this annual carnival where men and women of all ages compete for trophies in a host of events.

Open to both amateurs and champions, in past years international title holders like Northland's Jason Wynyard have competed alongside locals at The Chops.

In recent years the Association has been rejuvenated and has a new, enthusiastic president in 20-year-old Marley Ford.

Ford competes in the Northern axemen's circuit which includes Pawarenga, Broadwood and Opononi.

Ford paid tribute to club members like Bill Carter and Tim Reuben who have mentored him and the younger members.

"Carter and Reuben are our club's veterans who are supporting the new generation. They have worked hard to keep this club going," he said.

"Our club is open to anyone who wants to give it a go. I'd like to encourage people to come along and see what we're doing."

Ford is happy to answer any questions about the club and the New Year's Day chops.

- If you want to contact him, he is on 021 065 9277 or head to the Facebook page Opononi Axemen's Club.