HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Wherever you are, whatever you do, and however you celebrate, have a safe and happy holiday season.

We will be celebrating not only the season but the place in which we live.

Swimming, fishing, kayaking, camping, bbq's, walking etc, etc, and we do not even have to leave town to do it.

And of course for those interested The Rodeo.

The Opotiki Rodeo : sponsored by Whakatane Hunting & Fishing

28th December 2009

The Annual Opotiki Rodeo is not to be missed. It features spectacular horse and western type events and is commended by the competing cowboys & girls to be one of the best in New Zealand.
The Opotiki Transport Open Bull Ride starts at 2pm sharp. Carries a $1,000 purse (prize money). The cowboys ride a 700kg bull - bred especially for bucking. This is one of the highest paying events on the national circuit attracting around 200 competitors from the South Island and Australia and over 4,000 spectators.

There are amusements, food and drink stands, and clothing and tack (saddlery), available for purchase.

Great entertainment for all ages.

WHERE: Opotiki Rodeo Grounds, St John Street, Opotiki
COST: Adult $15, Child $5, Family $35
DATE: 28th December 2009

TOWN AND AROUND

Just in case you're in the neighbourhood these holidays (or indeed anytime of year), here are some of the sights you will see.













Not bad huh! Everyday here is like being on holiday.

Photos compliments Central Backpackers, King St, Opotiki.

WELCOME TO OPOTIKI

Waiotahi Estuary

Whether you are holidaying, here for a specific event or just passing through, welcome to our town. The Waiotahi Spit with it's very popular Pipi Beds and rest area offers toilets, a caravan dump station and safe swimming.


Approaching the bridge into town over the Waioeka River
As you approach the bridge into town (from Whakatane side) the golf course and the residential area know as Woodlands, are to the right.


Corner of Elliott St and the main shopping area of Church St The main street carving depicts the historic lifestyle of the age from the arrival of white people. It portrays the progress of civilisations introducing agriculture, horticulture and trading. Schooners and scow were the main mode of transport to this coastal town. The essence of the 2 carvings at the entrance to the main street at opposite end of town, is survival, the estern one being a bird and the western, Pikopiko (frond) - the food of our forefathers.

We already know we have a unique character. Our beaches are long, sandy and peaceful; the coast is rocky, picturesque and alive with sea life. We have natural bush clad ranges, DOC reserves and clear freshwater rivers. We are renowned for our friendly people. You know you only have to inquire.

Thank you for coming. Take care of our environment.

'TIS THE SEASON

It is the season and beyond all reason we feel more pressure than at any other time to spend more money than we can afford, just to celebrate 1 day.

Not everyone subscribes to the 'silly season'. Whether that is because of religious or cultural beliefs, or a refusal to buy in to the commercialism of a day, it does not matter, people can and do make up their own minds.

I have to admit I love the whole package, especially the family get together.
And lights twinkling in the late evening.

Last year in Opotiki the Eastern Bay Energy Trust provided a stainless steel spiral christmas tree that was lit with green and white lights, it made a welcoming beacon for anyone travelling through our town at night.

But of course we are lucky here to be surrounded by natures very own christmas tree, the pohutakawa. A fine example of this being the 'Pohutakawa Tunnel' that welcomes all driving through Waiotahi towards our coastal town.



No matter what your reasons are for your season, we do not discriminate. We have the belief that everyone is entitled to live their life in an environment that offers a holistic approach. Whether you want solace for the soul, metaphysically speaking enjoying all nature has to offer, or just want a different lifestyle and location, don't look past us, we are always looking ahead.