What better way to herald the arrival of spring than the annual Whitianga Scallop Festival.

With some fantastic sunny days leading up to Saturday’s big event, anticipation was high. I am sure I was not the only one then who woke up on Saturday morning a little disappointed to see rain and overcast sky, though it was promising to see the sun was pushing its way through.

Not to be deterred we headed to the festival to meet with friends and family and get into those delicious scallops. Where to start? With a fantastic selection of stalls offering mouth watering scallop dishes and other foods plus a great selection of wine and beer the day was bound to be a success. With huge marquees to protect everyone from the chilly day and music from the likes of DDub and Hollie Smith there were many happy faces.

After the wet winter we have had it was great to see people out and about with smiles and enjoying themselves. A great event for Whitianga and the surrounding communities. The buses and taxes did a great job ferrying people back and forth from Matarangi and Kuaotunu. An event to diarise for next year.

Now bring on spring and another great summer.