While Buller may be opposition to his hometown of Hokitika when they meet on the rugby field, at the ex-West Coasters gathering the rivalry disappears to make for a fun day “catching up”, says co-organiser Murray Wieblitz.
“You just wander around talking to everyone, because that’s what coasters do,” he says.
The gathering, held annually since 2006, excluding during Covid, offers a chance for anyone with a connection the the West Coast to come along, meet new people, and chat about the places they call home.
Helen Bennett and Murray attended school together in Hokitika in 1958, and after moving to Nelson Tasman separately took over organising the event some years ago to continue fostering the local connection to the coast and its community.
Murray says last year’s turnout was one of the best they’ve had and hopes this year they can attract the next generation.
Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine is this year’s guest speaker who will discuss mining and flood protection – important topics for both the coast and the Tasman region, Helen says.
But the speaker is a just a small part of the event, with the pair saying hours are often spent reminiscing and discussing the old days, as well as building new connections and looking at the future of the place that will always hold their heart – the West Coast.
“You can’t take the coast out of the coaster,” Murray says.
He reckons on his two or three visits back to the coast each year he’s still “going home”, despite moving to Nelson in 1970.
“But then when we’re coming back to Nelson, we’re coming home,” he says.
An afternoon tea is included in the $10 price of the ticket, although Helen says guests do need to RSVP prior so they can finalise the catering numbers.
The reunion is at Club Waimea on Sunday, 18 August, from 1pm. Please RSVP to Helen on 021 378 748 or Murray 027 446 8225 before 10 August.
