CLUB PROFILE

Official Name: The Friendship Force of Horowhenua
Number of Ambassadors we can host: 25
Our current membership is: 52

Horowhenua is the name of our region and means landslide. Horo - slide and Whenua - land. The area is steeped in Maori history. The Friendship Force of Horowhenua held their first meeting in 1989 and became a licensed member of FFI in 1991. Our members enthusiastically welcome all overseas exchanges. We like to host two Inward Exchanges each year and have enjoyed many Outward Exchanges. Friendship Force members, hosts and day hosts treat their Ambassadors to a week of sightseeing, which usually includes a visit to our capital, Wellington.

Levin, population around 16 thousand, is the centre of the Horowhenua region and is nestled between the Tararua Ranges and the beautiful Tasman Sea ocean beaches. It is a thriving provincial town with a strong employment base in horticulture, agriculture, manufacturing and the commercial servicing sector. Levin has good shopping facilities and factory shops operating in the town, as do the smaller towns of Foxton, Otaki and Shannon. Orchards, fresh vegetable stalls and garden nurseries can be found on the outskirts.

Because of our geographical location you can enjoy the reserves and beaches, outdoor activities such as swimming and bush-walking, or tramping for the more experienced. All this is within easy reach - just 5-10 minutes drive from any of the regions towns. The temperate climate of the region enhances the holiday atmosphere, and depending on the season a barbeque or picnic, farm visits or garden rambles, craft or hobby shopping, golf, tourist attractions, a Maori cultural experience and visiting with extended families are all likely to be included in your visit.

Exchanges sometimes begin or end in the capital city of Wellington, which is 100kms south of Levin, and is the site of our nearest International Airport. You may travel by bus or train giving you the opportunity to view more of the beautiful local scenery, the cost varies depending on the method of travel chosen. Our nearest domestic airport is Palmerston North about 55kms north of us. Palmerston North does have international flights but only from Australia.

Culture is alive and well in the Horowhenua, with many groups and societies involved in the visual and performing arts, and there is a strong following of the many diverse crafts.