Xmas dinner thrills guests

For locals to give up their Christmas Day to cater for those who were on their own is truly a Christian act and on Christmas Day 2018 they did just that.

The dream of Donna and Murray D’Admin well and truly was realised as a large team of volunteers materialised once the concept was circulated and over 170 were catered for with a meal and entertainment rivalling anywhere in New Zealand.

One recipient — an ex-chef — said he would have been delighted to have put on such a meal in his former restaurant. Many said it was just wonderful as they dined on a main course offering five meats and plenty of vegetables followed by the Kiwi Christmas dessert of pavlova and fruit.

During the dinner the stage was dressed with reindeer and Christmas decorations, and a band comprising Tom Kamura, Peter Tairea, Anne Kelly, Paddy and Ngaroma Driver and Willy Patu provided Christmas carol entertainment. Father Christmas with his elf assistant provided presents for firstly the children and then the adults.

Thanks to sponsorship the presents were extremely generous and brought both shock and delight to many of the recipients.

Even sponsors from out of town contributed, the patrons of the Norsewood Crown Hotel contributing $270 so that each guest could receive a Christmas card and Scratchy.

Organiser Donna D’Admin said the whole community had been very responsive, over 40 volunteers helping on the day, numerous organisations providing wrapped presents and the Tararua Council team of Annette Finlay and Joy Kopa decorating the hall.

Mayor Tracey Collis checks on this table of happy guests just before lunch.

Tom and Peter had friends to help entertain with Christmas carols.

Father Christmas and his elf had presents for everyone.

Noeleen Kamura all the way from Hamilton was thrilled with her present.

The team of volunteers getting ready to serve dessert.