Newspaper Article – Village festival a growing success story for shops

Village festival a growing success story for shops

JULIET PALMER HALASZ

“Before I wish the people of Havelock North a Merry Christmas, I want to thank everyone who helped make last month’s Village Festival such a success, chairman of the Havelock North Business Association,” Michael Poppelwell says.

“The Under the Eves dinner of the Friday was the biggest turnout we’ve had so far, with 140 diners. This event continues to grow. A good night was had by all, with top food and entertainment.”

Michael says the Saturday, which was the main festival day, drew record crowds, while the Hospice Holly trail and the New Zealand sculpture celebration brought many additional visitors to the festival.

“The whole weekend was fantastic. On the Saturday, all the shops set up some of their wares out on the pavement, which really contributed to the festive village atmosphere.

“This atmosphere was further enhanced by the redevelopment of the village centre, which at that time was nearly complete. The redeveloped area is now starting to look great, and when the gardens are fully established, the effect will be absolutely superb.”

Michael says one of the benefits of the festival was in providing an opportunity for the arts to come together – something he considers “very appropriate in this community”.

“The festival also laid great foundations for Havelock North business people’s plans for seasonal Christmas trading – and beyond.”

He says the business association is now seeing a continual flow of visitors into the village – either as day trippers or overnighters.

“Havelock North is now considered a ‘must-see’ destination for many out of town visitors: we have numerous boutiques, shops, restaurants, cafes and wineries… the numbers are growing all the time. The selection here is as good, if not better, than in the city centres – and we offer plenty of easy parking,” he says.

Extended trading hours during the Christmas week will see shops open on Sunday, December 19, from 10am to 2pm, while a late night is planned for Thursday, December 23, when shops will stay open until 7pm.

Keep and [an] eye out for Father Christmas, too – he will be wandering the streets keeping a note of the especially good people during the Christmas week.

“So on behalf of all the members of the Havelock North business community, we would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.”

Photo caption – MICHAEL Poppelwell (President of the Havelock North Business Association), says Havelock North has plenty to offer shoppers over the Christmas period.