‘Awesome’ return for Awapuni
Good news gets around the neighbourhood quickly, particularly when there’s a party involved.
The annual Awesome Awapuni Community Day returned on Saturday, held at Raleigh Street Reserve to celebrate the park’s upcoming upgrade.
The neighbourhood festival, which had been washed out last year, featured live entertainment, kids’ attractions and food.
Awapuni Kindergarten head teacher Kim Stewart, who helped organise the event, said Palmerston North City Council agreeing to help spruce up the park was a boost to the community as the residents often felt forgotten.
‘‘Everything seems to go to the other side of town, or into Highbury. And we’re left in the middle.’’
Council community groups advisor Pascal Francois said the three consultation meetings had been packed, and well over 1000 people had joined the community party.
‘‘For the council that shows how much people care about this park, and its place right in the heart of the neighbourhood.’’
Gavin Smith brought his 11-year-old grandson Hamiora Horua at noon, when everything was in full swing.
The pair tucked into lunch as Manawatu¯ ’s Brazilian drum and dance Samba ao Vento performed, and discussed what to do first. Hamiora said he was keen to get into one of the inflatable sumo suits for a match or two.
‘‘First, I’m eating some fish and chips, getting into the songs and just having a good relax.’’