Winning streak ends for Feilding

Feilding, proud owner of 12 consecutive Keep New Zealand Beautiful (KNZB) awards, has had to pass on the mantle.

The KNZB society this week announced New Zealand's three most beautiful towns. Bay of Plenty township Katikati scooped the under-8000 population section, while Gisborne won the over-21,000 section.

It was the Waikato town of Te Awamutu that broke Manawatu hearts, though.

Previously known for being the birthplace of musicians Neil and Tim Finn, and having a preponderance of roses, "Chiyaamoodoo", as the locals pronounce it, is now the country's tidiest middle-sized town.

Feilding's campaign chairwoman Del Gibb -- awarded a Queen's Service Medal last year for her tireless efforts in beautifying the town -- wished Te Awamutu well.

"They were the bridesmaids for many years, so good on them, they've tried hard."

- nzpa