MPs beat city rivals to a pulp

The aim was to "smash em", but instead Hamilton city councillors got stewed during a game of pumpkin bowling yesterday.

The friendly bowls game between Hamilton City councillors and government representatives saw pumpkins bounce and roll their way towards skittles in Garden Place at lunchtime yesterday.

Hamilton East MP David Bennett, wearing a serious looking navy bowling hat, led the government team while Hamilton city councillor Angela O'Leary fronted the council team, dressed in bright red tees.

Ms O'Leary said her team only had one tactic and that was to "smash em".

Hamilton West MP Tim Macindoe rushed in to take his three bowls in quick succession.

His creative technique saw his pumpkins jump their way down the makeshift bowling green.

Despite their enthusiasm, no-one got a strike. The government team beat the councillors to a pulp, winning 18 to 9.

Friends of Hamilton Gardens held the event in the runup to the Grand Pumpkin Carnival at Hamilton Gardens from 11am to 3.30pm on Sunday. Activities will include downhill pumpkin bowling, cooking competitions and awards for the biggest pumpkin, best carved pumpkin and pumpkin creations.

Ms O'Leary and Mr Bennett have also been growing their own pumpkins to contend for the title of largest pumpkin.

- © Fairfax NZ News