Industry insiders tell us what they are looking forward to most this long weekend.
Jessica Grubisa – designer, Harman Grubisa
“This Waitangi weekend is particularly special as I will be spending it tucked away at a beach with my best friend, who is returning from New York for summer for the first time in many years – I’m looking forward to margaritas, stories and laughter in the sunshine.‘’
Naomi Larkin – editor, Simply You
“Whether you’re celebrating, protesting or a first-timer, joining the events at Waitangi Treaty Grounds in Paihia on Monday tops the list. As a child living in the Far North for many years, my parents regularly took us there to observe the day unfold so it has a special place in my heart.”
Liz Stringer – owner of Harry’s, Wellington
“My family are away at various places this Waitangi weekend. I’ve got three girlfriends joining me at our Martinborough farm for a yoga and vegan retreat. We’ll be exercising on the hills then eating organic salads straight from the garden.”
Sally-Ann Mullin – editor, Fashion Quarterly
“With all that is happening in the world of late I am feeling grateful for my country, my city and my family so this long weekend I’m staying local and looking forward to spending quality time with my 3-year-old son Patch. We are big beach fans so we’re planning a day trip to a west coast beach where we’ll be making sand castles and swimming in the sea – and working on our amateur surfing skills. On Saturday evening I am planning to rock out to Guns and Roses and I most likely will be singing at the top of my lungs, so anyone who sees me beware!”
Cheryl Raymond – Manager, World Queenstown
“I am so looking forward to Waitangi Day, as my two children, aged 21 and 22 years-old, are flying down from Auckland to spend a week with me. As I have relocated to Queenstown, we are going sightseeing around the area, the first stop being Glenorchy. The 45 km drive from Queenstown is said to be spectacular and the region has been featured in the Lord of the Rings films. We’ll then travel on to Paradise – it’s just down the road and the name says it all. We’re also thinking of our stomachs, so we have Amisfield winery and bistro on our itinerary.”
Liz Mitchell – designer, Liz Mitchell
“Over the Waitangi holiday break I will have time to reflect on New Zealand’s founding document and its relevance today. There will always be robust discussion of Maoritanga, land rights and the country’s direction over this weekend. It is good that there is a place for all voices to be heard. It is a challenging time in our world today with the immigration crisis, Brexit , President Trump ideology in action, and how all this will impact on us.
“As a country we have much to be proud of with our rich cultural diversity that gives NZ its unique identity. I will be following with interest what the new Governor-General, Dame Patsy Reddy, will be wearing in her formal duties, over this special New Zealand weekend.
“I do hope to have some time catching up with family and friends, relaxing and enjoying the arrival of summer.”
Lynne Howard – marketing and brand manager, Cavit & Co.
“This Waitangi weekend I am looking forward to a native bush walk to Maraetotara Falls followed by a picnic and a swim at Waimarama Beach, Hawkes Bay. It’s a delightful way to appreciate how very fortunate we are to live in this beautiful and peaceful country.”
Jolanta Kordonski Dixon – designer, Madly Sweetly
“This Waitangi weekend is a ‘biggie’ for me. It’ll start with an early Saturday morning yoga class overlooking Le Roys Bush on the shore, getting body and mind into a beautiful, balanced state, I hope. The evening will be spent with close friends at a combined birthday bash.
“Sunday is a very special day – my wonderful mother’s 75th birthday. The family will be celebrating with a glass or two of bubbly on the waterfront followed by a delicious tapas lunch. Monday is recovery day with a kayak paddle – if the sea, weather and body permits.”
