(PR.co.nz) The sun shone, the birds sang, and the visitors kept coming, for an afternoon of music, relaxation, art and good company. Art & Soul, the inaugural event at Hamurana Lodge Boutique Hotel, provided a showcase of entertainment and art exhibits. The cabaret style of musical numbers engaged the audience and had them swaying along to French and English melodies provided by Monica Louis and Sarah Bradley (former host of TV One’s Good Morning show).
An Art Trail, featuring sculptures and pieces from nationally renowned artists, welcomed visitors as they made their way through the estate to the homestead, and provided points of interest as people picnicked and strolled through the expansive grounds. Throughout the afternoon over 130 people enjoyed the chance to relax beneath the trees, explore the lodge, take in the views from the restaurant balcony, and wander through the gardens. Some even managed to fit in a game of croquet or petanque, to the sounds of well known songs from favourite musicals. Local charity, the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat, received a boost to their funds from donations raised at the Event.
Such was the success of last weekend’s event that another has been confirmed to be held on Sunday 25 March, featuring local musicians, artworks and a farmers market. In the meantime the Art Trail will remain as an ongoing exhibition, open to the public daily, with artworks being updated and refreshed to ensure there is always something new whenever you visit.
And to ensure everyone has access to the latest news on upcoming events, accommodation opportunities and restaurant bookings, Hamurana Lodge has launched a mobile application of their website. “We understand that people like to plan as they go,” says Lodge Manager Fred Novella, “so anyone with a smartphone can now access our Hotel availability, restaurant menu, and details of upcoming events very easily”.
While Hamurana Lodge is most famous for the high standard of boutique hospitality provided to its international guests, Mr Novella hopes that the new focus on events, along with the Art Trail and Le Manoir Restaurant, will provide more opportunities for local people from around the region to visit and enjoy this stunning rural setting.
Media Release 28 January 2012 from www.hamuranalodge.com.