Nau mai haere mai ki Eastern Bay Villages, Te Kokoru Manaakitanga
“Ko koe, ko au, ko mātou ko tātou, ngātahi he hāpori tātau”
“You, me, we, us; together we make a community”

Nau mai, haere mai.
We are people in the Eastern Bay of Plenty who came together around a common concern: the increasing numbers of seniors/pakeke in our communities who are isolated and vulnerable. As families become smaller and more scattered it has become difficult for older people to live well in their own homes. We are exploring ways to re-create the community support we experienced back in the 1950’s and 1960’s.
We
- build community connections across generations to enhance well-being
- focus on contribution and mutual support
- work alongside clubs, marae, community organisations, paid services
An organisation based on membership, we welcome members of all ages, and invite them to use their skills and interests and time, to benefit others. Our ability to do something for others gives our lives purpose and meaning. Health and social services refer seniors/pakeke who need some support to us and we connect them with members with similar interests.
We are not a health or social service, but work alongside home and personal care providers, filling in gaps beyond their reach. We alleviate loneliness by connecting people and encouraging deep relationships.
In this TED Talk, Cormac Russell shows how other communities have enabled older people to use their gifts to benefit everyone.
Our Vision
Thriving, inclusive and connected communities, where everyone has a sense of purpose, belonging, and well-being.
Our Mission
To foster well-being for seniors / pakeke in our communities, whānau/hapū/iwi by promoting mutual support and reciprocal relationships.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Our commitment to Te Tiriti is reflected in our ‘two whare’ board with Māori and Pākehā co-chairs, and made manifest in our work and relationships with iwi/hapū as well as our mainstream communities.
Awhi & Support
Benefits for Members
Being part of a connected and supportive community.
Awhi mai, awhi atu, tātou tātou e.
Some of the people behind the scenes

Amohaere Tangitu
Co-chair

Tamiana Thrupp
Tuhoe Cultural Representative

Ngaire Lewis
Trustee

Andy Stretton
Trustee

Moana Scott, Ruth Gerzon & Raewyn Kingsley-Smith
Trustee, Coordinator, Member

Jo-Anne Tahuri
Pou Arahi

Paula Hocken
Coordinator, Edgecumbe

David Poole
Co-chair

Ruth Gerzon
Coordinator

Janet Milbank
Administrator
Contact us
Address
PO Box 3017
Ōhope
Whakatane 3161