Coastlands residents gathered under sunny skies last Sunday for the third instalment in a popular series of community events, organised by local resident and community organiser Kay Montgomery alongside a dedicated team of volunteers.

At the heart of the afternoon was a giant pumpkin competition. Seedlings had been distributed at the previous block party in November, giving residents the summer to grow their entries.

Prizes were awarded across several categories: the biggest pumpkin (pictured second from left) went to Keelan Dawson; the smallest to Kiwi Room at Coastlands Preschool; and the ugliest to Logan and Cooper Owen.

In a nod to every aspiring gardener, a Ghost Pumpkin prize was also on offer for those whose pumpkins didn’t survive the summer. Categories were sponsored by Property Brokers and Salt Spray Surfing Lessons.

A special mention for Neil Cringle, who grew the second-largest pumpkin and supported others throughout the competition.

Residents set up stalls selling homemade crafts and fresh fruit, while Coastlands’ regular food and coffee trucks kept the crowds fed with pizzas, Asian fusion dishes and ice cream.

Local musicians Rohan Evans, Steve Jeffares, Dave Stewart, Dan Maitland and Marty Barlow provided the soundtrack, delivering several hours of classic covers and original music to the delight of the crowd.

Ms Montgomery said she was thrilled with the turnout and paid special tribute to Māori ward councillor Toni Boynton for judging the competition, and Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board member Sasha Cessford for emceeing the event.

Closing out the afternoon, Ōhope musician Barlow reflected on the importance of communities coming together for moments of joy.

“We can rely on each other for support and company in a world that sometimes feels rougher than it should,” he said.