August has been another busy month in Le Quesnoy, welcoming many Kiwi travellers and some of our most exciting events of the year.
And with the summer sun beating down, it’s also been time to head to the beach and enjoy some well-deserved holiday time for myself and the team.
The highlight this month was Troy Kingi’s free show in the ramparts of Le Quesnoy. I was completely blown away, first by Troy’s generosity to perform free-of-charge for the people of Le Quesnoy, and second by his amazing voice and stage presence.
It was a privilege to host Troy at Te Arawhata, and I sincerely hope that he and his team enjoyed their time at our tūrangawaewae on the Western Front.
It was also a pleasure to see so many locals join us for the town’s second annual “Sunday of Character” – a celebration of Le Quesnoy’s rich culture and heritage which led to it being named a “little city of character” in 2025.
Led by our Learning and Engagement Officer Lindsay Vanstavel and Le Quesnoy’s tourism officer Louise Serurier, this event followed symbols of New Zealand all around the town’s ramparts, parks and streets.
With more than 30 people turning out on a rainy day, and sampling New Zealand’s iconic meringue dessert, the pavlova, this event was a wonderful testimony to the friendship between Aotearoa and Le Quesnoy.
The works on the public garden behind Te Arawhata continue to progress, with grass starting to sprout on what will be the park’s central lawn. We are grateful to the town for leading this exciting transformation and look forward to welcoming locals and Kiwis alike into this beautiful space.
September is also a busy time in Le Quesnoy, as the European Heritage Days coincide with the annual Dairy Festival. We are also delighted to be joined by Fiona Taylor, Head of Modern Languages at Christchurch’s St Andrew’s College, with us as recipient of the Rosaria Campbell Award for Excellence in French Teaching.
Thanks to all for the continuing support and see you soon in Le Quesnoy!