Issue 1,210
Local News for Local Communities
Thursday 13th November 2025
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Missing Items from St Peter/s Church Page 2
Darfield Recycling Station Trial Page 5
Courtenay A & P Show Pull-Out Guide Pages 7 - 18
HORORATA HIGHLAND GAMES HITS NEW HIGH A record crowd of 11,000 people gathered at the Hororātā Domain last Saturday for the 14th Hororātā Highland Games, a celebration of Scottish and Kiwi culture like no other. One of the most moving moments of the day was the Chieftain Welcoming Ceremony, a powerful blend of traditions that epitomised the spirit of the event. The Kapa Haka group Ngā Puāwai Ō Tāwera welcomed this year’s Chieftain, Michael Fraser Milne, before 20 pipe bands saluted him in a mass performance that left many in the crowd emotional. Once again, the Hororātā community delivered a worldclass event, showcasing the power of community spirit and volunteerism. The Games featured 21 Scottish clans, 800 competitors, 230 volunteers, 130 market stalls, eight performing groups, and 19 community organisations fundraising for their own causes.
For many, the Hororātā Highland Games is more than just a one-day event; it’s a source of inspiration that sparks new passions and lifelong involvement. Rachelle McDowell, from Ashburton, shared how the event has shaped her daughter’s journey. “Nine years ago, Charlotte made us sit there and watch bagpipes and Highland dancing all day at the Hororātā Highland Games,” says Rachelle. “Now she’s beyond excited to be playing the bagpipes there for the first time, in four separate events, and coming away with a thirdplace medal.” Hororātā Community Trust Executive Officer Cindy Driscoll says this story captures the true spirit of the Games. “I love that the Games inspires people to take up new passions, whether it’s playing the bagpipes or drums, Highland Dancing, or heavy athletics,” says Cindy. “This is also true for
Best Dressed Lad and Lass winners Andy and Kaye Clyne.
Photo credit: Kathryn Taylor.
our volunteers. When the She adds, “To all our sponsors, community started the Games suppliers, entertainers, and back in 2011, most of the volunteers, thank you for the Hororātā committee hadn’t even been to enabling a Highland Games, let alone run Community Trust to put on the one. Now they know all the ins Games, which are more than and outs and have developed just an enjoyable day out; they their own passion for creating are inspiring people and helping our community thrive.” something truly special.”
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