Suzanne Williams

I must record my appreciation of the wonderful weekend we have had the privilege to experience.  In the Art and Garden Trail we had a plethora of beauty and talent, lovely weather and pleasant and helpful hosts, along with fellow- enthusiasts met several times over.

I saw 11 gardens and several art studios; at my advanced age  it was taxing, but such an enjoyable experience;  and I had a free day to follow and recover.  The standard of the displays, walking trails and art was outstanding, and the diversity and invention a credit to some hard-working hosts.

I do, however, have some suggestions.:

Firstly, it would have been nice to have been able to pick up some missed places on an extra day (Monday?), obviously only those to whom it is convenient to host.  It is very hard for even the most lively to visit 14 places in one day.

Secondly, the cost of this is pathetic at $12;  surely even the more hard-up of us can afford $20 or so, for nearly 30 visits?

Thirdly, in the Far North, where I was involved with them, the Kaitaia branch of Riding for the Disabled ran a similar trail;  we have heard recently that the local branch of R.D.A., which does such valuable and selfless work, is threatened with closure for lack of funds.

Could some of the extra revenue go to them, with a visit to Awatapu Road to see their work with the kids, thrown in?

Thanks to organisers and hosts for a pleasurable and fun weekend.