It was a cool and early start to the day (7:00am) as our club members gathered at the BP Service centre on the Southern Motorway. This was the first event of the new year for the club and the weather was looking nice, just a little cloudy. But as we got underway and started to head south along the motorway, the sky cleared and it was beautiful sunny blue sky all the way, perfect for tops down for those with convertibles. This year we had nine cars and sixteen people from Auckland, a great turn-out for a real nice cruise to the beautiful Coromandel.
We arrived at the Tastebud Café right on 8:30am as planned and met with the Midlands crew there. What a nice café in lovely surroundings, with the garden centre attached and horses in a paddock next door.
Unfortunately, we were told there had been a serious accident on the road to Coromandel which meant the road was closed until further notice, so while we were all having coffees and a bite to eat, we made plans for an alternative route to get to the Fair. There was only one other way available, so we eventually headed off along Kopu-Hikuai Highway and all the way through Tairua, Coroglen, Whitianga and across the hills to Coromandel. Well, the extra distance was worth it as the weather was perfect and the views spectacular.
Finally, we arrived at Coromandel and parked our cars next to the Fair. It was really busy and there were so many stalls selling all sorts of everything. What an amazing and fun time just wandering around looking at all the goods that were for sale. Of course a hotdog on a stick with lots of tomato sauce and later an ice-cream were must haves.
Eventually we had to leave and return home, but as we headed out through the township, it was great to see all the cafés and pubs full of people. The town was heaving.
Let’s do it again next year.
Trevor Ninness
