For generations, January’s long hot days have provided
the perfect excuse for the people of Thames to escape up the coast. Picnic
baskets in hand, locals and tourists alike would set up camp for the day as
they played, relaxed and enjoyed the coastline’s scenic splendour.
‘Picnic parties dotted the shore of our beautiful
coast yesterday, and many were the complimentary expressions passed by visitors
to the place on its unexcelled beauties’ reported the Thames Star in 1912. ‘The
pohutukawas lining the road side presented an attractive sight, and afforded
comfortable shelter for those seeking a cool spot away from the sun's rays.’
To celebrate the start of the New Year in 1906, the
local Young Men’s Independent No-License Club organised a town picnic up the
coast at Waiomu. Departing from Mary Street at 9am sharp, ten horse-drawn
carriages full of happy holidaymakers spend an hour and a half winding their
way up the coast road to the Waiomu Flat. ‘Soon fires were lit and the
indispensible ‘billies’ were everywhere,’ reported the Thames Star, as the
holidaymakers settled in for cups of tea. ‘A large copper kindly lent by Mr J.
Dobson, of the coast, supplied the necessary hot water for the less independent
tea drinkers.’
After lunch, the Young Men’s Club had organised an
afternoon of lively activities to keep the group occupied, including cricket
and rounders. Races were run to occupy the children, and ‘the little ones were
rewarded handsome toys for their athletic feats.’
By 6:30pm, the happy group had packed up and was
starting to make its way back to Thames. ‘Great praise is due to the young men
for the splendid arrangements made for the comfort and convenience of the
people,’ continued the Thames Star. ‘Although nearly 300 were carried to Waiomo
[sic], not the slightest hitch occurred during the day.’ The Star particularly
singled out for praise Mr Ferguson, the club secretary, as well as the carriage
drivers.
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