Sailing in the Bay of Islands on the Tall Ship R.Tucker Thompson

Sailing in the Bay of Islands on the Tall Ship R.Tucker Thompson

October

Is it really October already?
It must be because Di is getting the ‘Things I Had To Do Last Month’ list ready for me to do this month.
That is going to involve a LOT of maintenance work around Woodlands but this is the time of year to cash in on the early spring weather that is upon us.
We were flat out over the September period with group bookings as well as private functions for local people and businesses.
Our condolences go to the people of Christchurch after the devastating earthquake that claimed so many livelihoods and memories that can never be recovered.
We had guests stay here recently that were victims of the earthquake and they were just pleased to get away from the volatile shaking that was terrorizing their lives.
October looks to be a busy one for us too and for Kerikeri and adjoining areas.
We are fully booked during the Treaty of Waitangi Tribunal hearing over the ten day period that it covers in the first couple of weeks.
To follow up from last months successful tour from Kiwi top band OpShop, the Kerikeri Events Center (check www.centakeri.com for times and dates) will be showcasing Anika Moa on her Solo Tour giving us songs from her new album ‘Love in Motion’ and her old favorites as well.
We’ve actually had the privilege of having her stay here before and she is truly a lovely lady.
For the animal lovers there is the annual Dog Show in the Kerikeri Domain over the 15th – 16th and also the inaugural Paihia Catch It Festival (www.paihianz.co.nz) that coincides with Labour Weekend.
We’re fully booked next month for the weekend of 19th and 20th of November with the annual Kerikeri Half Marathon.
It’s always a great time because those who book with us have been taking part in the marathon since we took over Woodlands and is always great to see them return.
In between this I will be ticking off Di’s ‘Things To Do Last Month’ list so I promise you the place will be sparkling when you arrive. As you all know Di’s doing all the work.
Looking forward to seeing you!
Until next month, arohanui
Stu and Di

Spring is here at Woodlands Motel..

Another month gone, a new one begins, and Kerikeri is rapidly gaining momentum for the upcoming spring and summer season.
It only seems like last week but Di and I are celebrating eight years this month since we first started Woodlands Motel and Conference Centre.
The fact that we got married here shortly after we took ownership has seen our partnership bloom not only in matrimony but also business and personal relationships within the Kerikeri community.
Personally I think we are on the right track for where we want it to be and hope that we whet your appetite to come here and celebrate the occasion with us.
We are offering two nights accommodation for only $50 per night with Sunday night being part of the deal over the September period only. So if you’re coming to Kerikeri and stay with us Saturday and Sunday or Sunday and Monday you will pay $100.00 for the two nights (maximum two people-two nights.)
People have already indicated interest for accommodation for next years’ Blues versus Hurricanes rugby preseason match here in Kerikeri in February.
After last years domestic game between Northland and Auckland being a resounding success, it should be even more exciting with current and former All Blacks oozing from both teams.
The Kerikeri Events Centre will be building up for the ‘Until the End of Time’ tour from chart-topping kiwi band OpShop on September 25.
Leading in to that concert at the Events Centre this month will be the Top Energy Far North Science and Technology Fair, Antique Roadshow (similar to the television programme) and also a Blues Brothers tribute. (For dates, times and summaries go to www.centakeri.com
Christmas is only a matter of weeks away so make sure you get your bookings in early as Kerikeri tends to fill up very quickly over the summer period.
Next month will see the Paihia It! Festival which promises to have entertainment and stalls to please all walks of life.
From fishing competitions, showcasing top Northland vineyards, Monteiths beers, to month watering dishes being set up over the two day period at the end of October.
(For more information go to www.paihianz.co.nz )
If it’s anything like the annual Jazz Festival then this will certainly be one for next month’s calendar.
Hope to see you here, and remember the two-night deal is for this month only
Till next month, take care folks,

Stu and Di.

Nearly September

It’s been a while since the last update so plenty of news to tell from what we’ve done and
what is coming up here at Woodlands and Kerikeri itself.
Despite the earlier cold weather, Di and I managed to spend some much needed time on the property upgrading the natural surroundings for the spring and summer season.
After a traditionally quiet winter, we were still kept busy with conferences ranging from business seminars with Transfield to real estate auctions with Barfoot and Thompson.
Most of our seasonal backpackers have moved on with their travels once the citrus and kiwifruit seasons came to an end but no doubt we will fill up again when the season restarts around January.
Jazz and Blues fans were treated to a night of great entertainment at the Kerikeri Events Centre on Friday (20/8/10) with local talent Stephen Hay and Friends.
Next month the Events Centre will be hosting a Science and Technology fair, the Waikare Garden Club Spring Flower show, Blues Brothers rendition and Kiwi chart-busting group OpShop on their Until the End of Time tour playing on the 25th.
It will also be eight years since Di and I took over the ownership of Woodlands and to help celebrate the anniversary we are going to offer some one-off deals.
But you will have to follow the blogs to see what the offers are which isn’t that far away.
One of our guests was treated to a first hand experience while going for a tiki-tour through the Whangaroa – Matauri Bay circuit last week.
While stopping at Te Ngaire Bay they were treated to watching a mother Right whale playing with her pup only meters from the shore line.
According to locals, they had been there for nine days and keeping residents and tourists entertained throughout.
It was an experience they will never forget.
So that’s all we’ve got time for at the moment but will say that the town is already buzzing with this years Kerikeri Half-Marathon in November that will be followed by a street party that first started last year.
Till the next blog

Stu and Di

I know its pretty slack when you don't update your blog, specially whens its been so quiet. Still its starting to pick up,we have the Radio works annual promotion on Monday, we may even get the full sign out and up. Its been a while since we have had to that up.
Summer and Christmas bookings are starting to come in and although its still pretty early, it looks as though its going to be another busy summer season.
In the mean time have a look at whats on at "The Centre" in Kerikeri this month. If anything takes your fancy, I am sure we can arrange a great deal for your accommodation.
We are offering a great special at the moment.If you stay two or more nights and one of those nights is a Sunday, Sunday will only cost you $50.00. (Based on a studio unit, up to two people.)

Two bedrooms or One?

Woodlands new two bedroom apartment is proving very popular. Opened in November 2009, just in time for the Kerikeri half marathon. With its own kitchen, separate bedrooms, lounge and bathroom,located well away from the other motel units, creates a perfect location for family's and couples traveling together. The large deck, is ideal for relaxing in the afternoon after a busy day exploring the bay of Islands.