Waikato Cherry Tree Festival

Spring has sprung with bluebells, primulas and poppies among much else carpeting the ground. The paddocks’ grass has resumed growth to the satisfaction of the alpacas and cows. The food and drink vendors are doing a roaring trade.

The stilt walkers parade around with heads held high, while the apologisers seek forgiveness, and all gladly give it. The human statues find it hard to be stoic with heady lightness all around.

And, as if there weren’t enough flowering cherry trees, kids with cotton swabs paint more as face-painters add pink blossoms to other kids’ faces.

Colour abounds with blue Japanese drummers and a red dragon adding to the mix. Gentle Chinese lute music contrasts with the fierce Kung Fu dance performances. What a wonderful world.

This year is the second for the festival with the addition of longer hours (8am – 8pm), night lighting and an extra day, Friday, for those wanting a quieter day.