41st AUCKLAND HIGHLAND GAMES

Squally rain showers and a very cool breeze greeted everyone at the start of the first Highland Games of the season. Ever optimistic, the Scottish Clans and the Highland Games organisers had everything set up and ready on Saturday the 19th of November 2016. This was the third year in a row that inclement weather marred the Games. Many commented that it reminded them of a typical Scottish Highland Games.

Some of the competitions, Highland Dancing and Piping plus field events were completed, and by the time of the parade of clans and the Opening Ceremony the rain had stopped.

The Clan Donald Colour Party getting ready for the parade of the clans. From the left, the President Bruce McGechan, Guard Barrie Paterson, Secretary and Banner Bearer Tom McDonald, Guard and Vice President Carl Bradley.

 

The colour party was finally ready to move off for the parade of the clans.

Bruce McGechan, wearing his Inverness Cape, Barrie Paterson, Tom McDonald and Carl Bradley. In the background, the Vice President Lynnette McDonald and Annette Paterson.

The Clan Donald Colour Party during the parade, led by Bruce McGechan, Barrie Paterson, Tom McDonald, South Island Commissioner Elwyn Martin and Carl Bradley.

 

The Clan Colour Parties lined up for the Opening Ceremony with Clan Donald in the middle.
During the afternoon the rain started in earnest and the Clans started to pack up very early. Although the Pipe Band Contest did start this was soon cancelled because of the weather.

Those Clan Donald members that called in for a chat and refreshment departed hoping to meet at the Waipu Highland Games on New Years Day.