Walk on the mild side
It will take more than a bad hip and a pair of crutches to dampen the enthusiasm of Lisa Webber – or keep her off Whitby’s pathways this Sunday.
The Whitby Walkfest organiser says it’s an amazing occasion for families to get out and about without spending a dime.
‘‘People say it’s a wealthy area, but not really – everyone is trying to make their money go around.’’
The Whitby Residents Association event was first held in 2009 and, as always, is about ensuring Whitby residents and the wider community are aware of the lovely walkways throughout the suburb. When the area was first designed, it was envisioned that no child would need to cross a road to get to school due to its network of pathways.
‘‘What we are doing makes an occasion for people to pick up a map and explore the suburb further.’’
Seven suggested routes feature on a map available on the day. They cater for all ages and fitness levels and trek to all corners of the suburb bar the Redwood subdivision, where walkways are not a feature.
Ms Webber says for those keen to walk ‘‘the full gauntlet’’ of about 14 kilometres, it will take about two and a half hours.
As always, Whitby Sections has been supportive of the event, doing all of the photocopying of maps for free and allowing access over the top half of the former golf course, which is normally closed due to building works.
Walkfest headquarters will be at St Mary’s Church in the village centre, while Habitat For Humanity will be fundraising with a sausage sizzle and coffee cart. Trevor Farmer from Porirua City Council will be talking water recycling and emergency management.
This year it falls on Neighbours’ Day – an extra incentive for people to hit the pavement with other residents, or hold a barbecue, Ms Webber says.
Whitby Walkfest, March 25, noon to 3pm, starts at St Mary’s Church, Discovery Dr.