Best wishes for the festive season from Mayor Volzke

Kia ora, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

As we hurtle into the festive season, with all the excitement and challenges it entails, I like to take some time out to reflect on the year that’s been.

It’s easy to forget that we celebrated Christmas last year under Covid-19 restrictions. I was proud of our community during the pandemic, and it’s heartening to see us all reconnect now that restrictions have lifted. Community events, like the Christmas Parade, Summer Nights and Republic Day, have always been a highlight of the year and it’s exciting to see them come back.

Christmas isn’t always a happy time for everyone. This year, we’ve had an unprecedented number of families put forward to be recipients of our Mayoral Christmas Gift Appeal. I sincerely thank everyone who generously donated Christmas gifts and kai. Once again, you’ve shown that we’re a community that cares and looks out for one another.

This summer, I encourage you all to take some time out to relax and enjoy quality time with friends and whānau. If you’ve got guests, show off what our district has to offer. We’ve got a lot to be proud of.

On behalf of Stratford District Council staff and councillors, I wish you a safe and happy holiday and a prosperous New Year.