Day three - the phenomenon continues

In so many ways this venture is phenomenal...it has rained every day, sometimes torrential, and the sun has also appeared every day, warm and encouraging. However the atmosphere never ceases to be joyful in the extreme. Laughter, loud and genuine, permeates the air all the time. The wonderful Rangitikei river changes from green to gold to brown, cool and inviting even when lashed with rain. 

The characteristics of the Vinegar Hill Fest were created some thirty-five years ago by some frustrated and creative  gay men who wanted to have a holiday camp to celebrate their difference, diversity and inclusion in a safe environment. It has gone from small to large, to super large. Estimates of up to well over a thousand campers descend annually on this beautiful riverfront area, which of course is also frequented by straights.  But as the years went by, and gay numbers increased and got there first, it became a great economic advantage to the local community at Hunterville. Subsequently the facilities were improved with two toilet and shower blocks installed, and small fees were charged per day, per person, to cover the Christmas - New Year period in the normally cost-free camping grounds. However payment does not seem to be highly organised and it is left to the honesty of each camper to fork out. 

The organisers, led by the Camp Queen who is elected each year, do a big job of co-ordinating events, keeping the peace, and creating an inclusive non-threatening space. There are many country towns in New Zealand where it is still impossible to be an 'out' gay person, similar in many ways to Tasmania, so this summer event is virtually the only time of the year where many can be free to be themselves. It is a great initiative which has totally succeeded.

L and WW's modest tent

The above tent is not typical of most who frequent Vinegar Hill. Many are elaborately constructed walk-in models, with all appliances - electricity, television, and one, I was told, even brought their dish- washer, possibly a little over the top. But for most it is a ritual eagerly looked forward to every year, with many having come every year since its inception. For them, it is an absolute necessity, and a part of their life they could not not do without. It is certainly a solid part of Kiwi history already.

L and WW getting ready to shoot the rapids

The beautiful Rangitikei River

Getting some shade when the sun finally got here