About the Mangawhai Walking Weekend – the history, the people behind it

In 1999 the Mangawhai Walking Weekend was founded, organised and run by Jean Goldschmidt.

“Jean developed and ran the very successful weekend since 1999, almost single handedly!”

She would not agree with this statement but without her dedication, determination and foresight this weekend would not have evolved.

The local community have had tremendous input, with approx 100 volunteers turning out each year as enthusiastic guides and tail end charlies!

This is unique as all walkers treated to a guide with local knowledge and a passion for their walk. Some walks are only accessible during the weekend as they are on local private land so it is a rare treat indeed.

A New Trust to be Formed

2015 sees several changes to the Walking Weekend as it is put on a more permanent footing, with a Mangawhai Walking Weekend Charitable Trust as the organising body.

Funds raised from the weekend goes towards the Track maintenance and building programme – a team of local people work every Friday on this.