Waihī is gearing up for its Warm Up Party for the 2023 Beach Hop, which will bring classic cars and hot rods, as well as the infamous “undie 500”, to the town centre.
The event will be held on Wednesday, November 23, and the chairman of Go Waihī – who is organising the party – said excitement was beginning to brew.
“This event is all about having fun, and, as always, we’ve got plenty to offer,” Max McLean said.
“We’re making sure there’s lots of entertainment for everyone, too. Waihī East and Central schools will open the day with a kapa haka performance, welcoming the cars once they’ve arrived, and we’ll have bands performing throughout the day, with lots of rock ‘n roll music and dancing.”
There will also be more than 50 stalls selling everything from bric-a-brac, collectables, local produce, and food, as well as a best dressed fashion show.
The Undie 500 – a relay race where teams of three dress up in oftentimes humorous garb – will take place at 12.30pm, with the winners sharing in a $200 cash prize.
Hauraki Mayor Toby Adams said he was looking forward to taking part in the day’s activities.
“If you love the sound of a V8 engine, the curves of a classic car, a 50s fashion silhouette, or good old fashioned rock ‘n’ roll, then you won’t want to miss this brilliant event.
“I love the atmosphere and the energy it brings to Waihī, with the whole town out enjoying the spectacle.
“So whether you’re a Danny or Sandy fan, remember, this year ‘Grease is the word’.”
To support Waihī’s local businesses, The Beach Hop team will also be running their Shop and Win promotion. Those who spends $20 or more at a local shop can go into the draw to win a 50-inch Panasonic TV. The prize-winner will be drawn by Beach Hop Organiser Noddy Watts during prize-giving, and the winner must be there to claim their new TV at the time.
Meanwhile, the Repco Power Cruise around the Coromandel Loop (Whangamatā-Waihī-Paeroa-Thames-Coromandel-Whitianga-Tairua-Whangamatā) will take place on Thursday, March 23; the Castrol Edge Thunder Cruise to Onemana is on March 24; and the main festivities are in Whangamatā on Saturday and Sunday, March 25-26.
DETAILS: Waihī Warm Up Party rundown: 10am: Cars will start pulling in to Waihī from Whangamatā; 10:50am: kapa haka from local schools; 12.30pm: Undie 500; 1.30pm: fashion show; 2pm: prize-giving. Entry forms for the Mitre 10 Undie 500 or Best Dressed Fashion Show will be available on the day at the Go Waihi tent by the Memorial Hall and from roving ambassadors in the crowd.
