At last, a sit-down coffee with friends!
As we make our way to the weekend many of us are looking forward to being able to go into our favourite cafés and sit down with friends. It will feel like a whole new experience. How do we do this again?
While I consider this I am reminded of something my mother always used to tell us kids, “Treat people how you would like to be treated.”
It’s important to remember that the rules
cafés have around being vaccinated, showing your Covid passport, and wearing masks are there because they are following the rules set down by the government. Huge fines apply to businesses not complying. Consider this when entering and treat everyone with respect and kindness. Businesses are trying to provide service safely as well as trying to keep their business afloat during a very challenging time.
This year has been pretty tough on a lot of businesses in our area but once again I have been impressed by how positive people have been overall. I have noticed many members of the public have been paying it forward in cafés so that the next person who comes in for a coffee gets a lovely surprise. What a fantastic community to be part of!
Our town is lucky to have many great cafes and eateries to visit, including some gems within the Grange and in the industrial area. Make sure you pop in to check out what great food and service they are offering too.
As you have probably seen and heard by now, on the Sundays of the 12th and 19th December from 9 am to 1 pm, most of our retailers will be open for Christmas shopping. The big man Santa himself will be out and about and we will have some bouncy castles and lots of buskers along the street to entertain. Bring the kids into town to experience the festivities of Christmas shopping with the benefit of being outdoors. (and not in a stuffy mall) Just remember to sign in to each retailer you visit and keep to the safety guidelines we are already familiar with.
Santa will also be out in his Sleigh on the 14th and 15th December from 6 pm around some streets in Warkworth, Snells Beach, and Matakana! Keep an eye on the local Facebook pages for further details of streets and times.
I am excited about the last few weeks until Christmas as our retail comes alive again. Hairdressers have tired smiles on their faces and our Hospo people look forward to this Friday when they can once again open their doors to their customers.
Enjoy these next couple of weeks and if you see me out on the street stop and say hi and remember, we are stronger together.
Support Local, Buy Local, Employ Local, Love Local!
Murray Chapman
Manager, One Mahurangi Business Association
murray@onemahurangi.co.nz
www.onemahurangi.co.nz
