Garden Safari raises vital funds at a gallop
Kaitaia Riding for the Disabled benefits from lovely gardens
Another very happy and successful Garden Safari was held on the weekend of November 5 and 6 by Kaitaia Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).
The Garden Safari has been running since 1992 and is the main fundraiser for Kaitaia RDA, which provides people with disabilities and diverse needs the opportunity to gain confidence, independence and wellbeing through horse riding, therapy, rehabilitation and other activities.
“It was lovely to see everyone out enjoying such a beautiful two days and once again we were blessed with fabulous weather,” said event spokeswoman Irene Knowler .
“I think patrons were excited to be out in the sun enjoying life with friends, free of masks, rules and regulations at last.
“We are again truly thankful to have had 12 really lovely gardens on display and many visitors commented on the beauty and variety involved saying they had gleaned lots of ideas for their own properties.”
This year's Garden Safari ran from 9am- 5pm on both days, ending at the Safari Headquarters at the CBEC Garden Centre in Pukepoto Rd, Kaitaia.
At the Saturday event, a range of food and stalls were also available.
“We were very privileged and thankful to CBEC Garden Centre and their very obliging staff who were so helpful to us over the weekend, providing tables, space, loads of parking and a great attitude,” Knowler said.
‘‘The gardeners themselves added to the attraction by being very welcoming and hospitable and we thank everyone very much for their support.”
Knowler added the RDA horses were also grateful to participants and had sent out big snorts and whinnies for all the hay and new covers they
had helped to provide.
“To all those folk who contributed in any way, baking, helping on the day, we thank you very much,” Knowler said.
“Special thanks to Jack and Roly for putting up the signs that are too big for me to handle each year, the local business people (who have never refused to donate to this great cause), to Myjanne of the Northland Age, Louise and her team from Printing.com, (for their patience).
“As usual, a massive thank you to Petrecivich Motors for years of support, and of course to Wendy our
intrepid driver who keeps her passengers amused year after year as she negotiates some very tricky driveways.
Knowler also acknowledged Danny Campbell for his ‘easylistening music’, and Raewyn Taaffe for being the ‘accountant’ on the day.
“This year we also say a big thank you to Andrew Smith who stood in at very short notice to drive the second bus for us,” Knowler said.
The raffle winners were: Bird bath — Serena; Doubtless beauty pack — Chez; Goodie basket — M Tatnell; Christmas cake — Trish.