Waka Ama Set to Make Waves This Weekend
Raglan is bracing for the arrival of around 1,000 waka ama paddlers this weekend as the 29th Annual Whāingaroa Hoe takes place on Saturday. Races will start near the Papahua boat ramp at 9am, 10:30am, and 1pm.
The race day includes two memorial trophies: the Chrissy Herbert Memorial Trophy, awarded to the first team to cross the line in the W6 Women’s 20km Race (starting at 10:30am), and the Piripi Kereopa Memorial Trophy, awarded to the first Senior Master Men’s Team to finish the W6 Men’s 20km Race at 1pm.
Organisers are asking drivers to be patient as waka trailers and competitors arrive in town. Locals and visitors are also encouraged to use Raglan’s two other boat ramps throughout the day, as the Papahua ramp will be reserved for race operations.
Alcohol Ban Extension Proposed for Raglan
Waikato District Council is proposing changes to its Alcohol Control Bylaw, including new bans and extensions across the district. Raglan, which recorded the highest rate of alcohol-related incidents (192, or 26.6% of the district total) between 2019 and 2023, is among the areas facing changes.
While the initial proposal extended the ban from the wharf to Raglan Area School, the Community Board requested a reduction. The revised plan excludes most residential areas but maintains bans along the waterfront and on James St, Cliff St, Norrie Ave, Wainui Rd, and all of Bow St.
The summer seasonal ban is also set to be extended, shifting from the previous 23 December–6 January period to 23 December–10 February. The Alcohol Control Bylaw outlines where and when people can drink in public, and residents are encouraged to review the proposed changes carefully.
Consultation is open until 15 June 2025. You can have your say on the Waikato District Council website or by visiting the local Council office.
Weekend Sports Fixtures
In local sport, the Whāingaroa Whai rugby league team will take on Tūrangawaewae Reserves in Tūrangawaewae at 2pm on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Raglan Roosters football team will face Kompsure FC at Papahua at 1pm on Sunday.
Both teams are in strong form, and supporters will be hoping for wins across the board.