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The hunt is on for the community’s best pumpkin growers with the launch of Hūnua’s Giant Pumpkin Contest.
Hūnua School PTA is running the contest, and organiser Lani Inverarity said they chose the pumpkin growing contest as a nod to the school’s environment, while also creating a fun and wholesome event that the whole community can be part of.
“Rural schools, like Hūnua, are not just a place of education, but a hub for community connections and culture. When plans started to form a country fair, to celebrate Hūnua School’s 150th anniversary, we thought a giant pumpkin contest would be the perfect focal point.
“A bit of fun and friendly rivalry, for a good cause! We designed the different prize categories, from biggest, to best decorated, to pumpkin baking and treats. Also to have opportunities for participation from the diverse families that make up our neighbouring communities: young, old, rural, and urban.”
Inverarity believed this was the first time the school had run a pumpkin-growing contest.
“There have been other notable giant pumpkin contests in our area in the past. The Hūnua Playcentre ran a competition some years ago, and Helen Dorresteyn ran one at the Clevedon Village Farmers Market too. We’re inspired by their efforts and are grateful for their advice and guidance.”
Prospective entrants can buy homegrown seedlings and register at the Clevedon Farmers Market on Sunday, October 19.
Inverarity said contestants were off to a great start with Atlantic Giant Pumpkin seedlings (courtesy of Egmont Seeds) thriving and ready to be planted out. They like lots of sun, but you need to shade the pumpkin itself, so its skin stays softer to allow it to expand. Don’t forget good food (compost, aged manure) and water, she said.
“And plant it somewhere with good access, so that you can bring the pumpkin to the weigh-in!”
Hūnua School PTA is hosting a country fair on Saturday, March 28 to celebrate the school’s 150th anniversary. The fair will be held on the school grounds, from 12pm until the party is over.
Former students of Hūnua School can check the school’s Facebook page or website for details about registering for the anniversary.
