A Massaman-style Wallaby curry with poppadom and pickled cucumber will be this year's free wild food treat to attract visitors to the Northland Regional Council's Northland Field Days marquee. The council has transformed all sorts of pest animals, plants and even insects into edible field days treats over the years and for the past several events has forged a culinary collaboration with NorthTec cookery students. "With foraging and the story behind where our food comes from playing a big part in what and where we eat today, working closely with NRC to help promote potential pests here in Northland, is a 'win-win' situation," polytech chef tutor Hughie Blues said. For anyone keen to try some of the wallaby curry, the best time to visit is around 10.30am or 12.30pm each day of the March 4-6 field days. The council will also be providing information and advice on other aspects of its work, including material on controlling pest animals and weeds and also on those species that must be reported to council.
Rugby coach-manager course
The Northland Rugby Union has confirmed the dates for this year's RugbySmart course, which is compulsory for all coaches, assistant coaches and managers who are involved with teams from under-14 and above. School coaches are also encouraged to attend. The first of two sessions in the Far North is at the Kerikeri Rugby Club on Monday, March 8, and the second at the Kaitaia Rugby Club on Monday, March 15, both starting at 6.30pm. The online module must be completed before the practical session.
Te Reo course on offer
Ngātiwai - Te Au Here o Tūkaiaia is offering a free year-long beginners course in te Reo Māori in Whangārei starting on March 1. Classes are held in Semenoff Stadium on Okara Drive at 6pm. As spaces are limited people interested are encouraged to email education@ngatiwai.iwi.nz or phone 09 972 7670.
