Nine houses deck the halls

Christmas is coming a little early to South Taranaki with the Christmas House Tour on December 2.

Nine homes are decked to the halls for the enjoyment and inspiration of those who participate in this tour. Differing styles of decorations have dressed up these homes to be warm and welcoming, sparkly and bright. Each has their own distinctive character reflecting the style of the house and the taste of the home owners. The Tour homes are located in both urban and rural settings with houses in Ha¯ wera township, Tokaora, Manaia, Kakaramea, Normanby, and Ohangai. St John’s Church, also decorated for Christmas, will be an extra stopoff point.

One of the tour homes is Tairoa Lodge and a pop-up cafe in the Tairoa church hall will have gourmet-style cafe refreshments available for purchase.

The tour is a fundraiser for Food Bank and the Presbyterian centre upgrade. Food Bank coordinator Hazel Robinson is very grateful for the willingness of the home owners to participate in this special event.

Christmas can be a time of increased demand for the services of the Food Bank. It is especially stressful for families that may have work or housing issues, a wait to receive a benefit, have

‘‘We try to provide a little bit of Christmas for them in the food parcel.’’ Hazel Robinson

been abandoned by a former partner, or receive a sudden large bill. Providing a parcel of food may make all the difference in helping them get through a temporary emergency.

‘‘Some people just break down when they receive food assistance,’’ said Robinson. ‘‘They are so thankful and grateful. We try to provide a little bit of Christmas for them in the food parcel, some chicken or cake, or a little pudding. We also hear of cases of need where the person is too proud to ask themselves and we will take them some items to help out. Often they are just overwhelmed that someone would think of them.’’

Tickets for the Christmas House Tour are $25 and are available for purchase for people 16 and over from Lovell’s Flowers, Peta M Gifts and the Presbyterian Church Office on Argyle Street. Only a limited number of tickets are available, so early purchase is advised. The town houses will be open until 4pm and the country houses until 5pm.

For further information contact tour co-ordinator Myron Bent 06 278 4313.