It was a bright morning on New Years Day for the Waipu Highland Games at the Caledonian Grounds. However, there were some ominous dark clouds on the horizon that indicated possible rain later in the day.

The official start to the Games had the Waipu Pipe Band leading the Clans March from the Monument into the Caledonian Grounds to the Avenue of Clans for the flag raising. The host clan for the day was Clan Davidson who led the parade, and their Chief Grant Davidson took the salute as the clans passed the saluting base.

A good-sized crowd arrived early and were soon chatting to members of the various clans. The Clan Donald Pavilion had many members and friends calling in for a chat and refreshments.

 

Vice President Lynnette McDonald and Murdock McDonald set up the Hospitality Table for the Pavilion.

 

Friends from Pukekohe, Gary and Diane Landon, with Vice President Lynnette McDonald and North Island Commissioner Tom McDonald.

 

At 12.30pm the massed bands and clans paraded around the arena for the Official opening, which included a massed Highland Fling.

 

The massed pipe bands led by Pipe Major Eddie Eeles from the Auckland Police Pipe Band.

 

The massed Highland Fling.

 

The Clan Donald Colour Party. From the right, Banner Bearer, Vice President Lynnette McDonald, President Barrie Paterson, (partially obscured), Annette Paterson, North Island Commissioner Tom McDonald and Lex Allan.

 

The threatened rain finally arrived with a cloudburst around 2pm. This sent the crowd scattering to find shelter. The Highland Dancing continued in the Celtic Barn and the Piping Competition was transferred to the school hall and classrooms.

By early evening the rain had ceased and the Ceilidh with the Twisty Willow musicians was held in the Celtic Barn from 7.30pm. Around 100 guests were treated to well organised, calling of the dances, and a plentiful supper with haggis and Athol Brose for sustenance.

Despite the weather it was a great Highland Games for the start of 2018.