Katikati 150th Jetty Opening and Events Cancelled by Storm

Several key events planned as part of Katikati's 150th Ulster arrival anniversary celebrations had to be called off or shifted indoors after the severe winds that struck the town on the weekend of 13–14 September 2025. Katikati 150th Anniversary Committee chair John Clements said a call was made by 7.30 am Saturday to bring down the erected marquee roof structures over the new Town Square, after the poles buckled and the wind threatened to lift the entire tent — making it too dangerous to leave in place.

The planned official opening of the new 60-square-metre jetty at Uretara Landing on Beach Rd — a centrepiece of the 150th Ulster arrival events — was postponed due to the conditions. The ceremony had been set to include iwi participation, kapa haka, a tree planting, a few boats sailing up the river, and an unveiling of a plaque by the community board. The 150th morning market was relocated indoors to Pātuki Manawa Digital Hub, and the Katikati Concert Band's afternoon entertainment was cancelled altogether.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).