Community Forum Expo goes rural
The Maketu-Te Puke Community Forum Expo is heading east into the rural communities, with the next and final event for the year set to take place in Paengaroa.
Building on the success of previous events, this is a chance for locals to hear updates, share their views, and connect with Western Bay of Plenty District Council and community groups in a relaxed, interactive setting.
The forum takes place on Wednesday 21 May from 7pm to 9pm at Paengaroa Community Hall and will run in two halves – a forum followed by an interactive expo.
The first hour, from 7–8pm, will explore the new Te Puke-Eastern Community Board area, which will extend further east than the current community board area, taking in Te Puke, Paengaroa, Pukehina and Pongakawa, and take effect after the October 2025 local body elections.
Council will give an overview of what the change means for representation, followed by updates from several community organisations and schools in the area:
- Paengaroa Community Association
- Pukehina Ratepayers and Residents Association
- Pongakawa School
- Ōtamarākau School
From 8–9pm, the event shifts into expo mode, where attendees can move between different tables and talk directly with Council staff and elected members about topics that matter most to them, including:
- Local roading projects
- The Conway Road Reserve Playground
- Community grants
- Emergency management (with a VR natural hazard simulation experience)
Local Ward Councillor and Forum Convenor Andy Wichers says it’s another great opportunity for residents to connect, be informed, and consider getting involved in local decision making.
“We’re excited to host another engaging Community Forum, this time spotlighting the eastern end of our rohe (District) and the upcoming community board changes effective after the October 2025 election,” says Andy.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about Election 2025 and explore what this could mean to step up as a community leader, among an extensive offering of community information.”
Council first introduced Community Forums in 2023 as a way for people to meet their local representatives in an informal setting.
An expo-style format was trialled in Te Puke last year and, following its success, was rolled out across the District this year.
Over the past couple of months, Community Expos have been held in Katikati and Te Puna, with more than 120 people attending to learn about projects happening in their communities and give their feedback. The Maketu-Te Puke Community Forum Expo will be the last one for 2025.
Head to Council’s Facebook page to register as ‘interested’ or ‘going’ on Council’s Community Expo event: https://www.facebook.com/westernbaycouncil/
For updates on projects in your community, visit yourplace.westernbay.govt.nz
