Community Cohesion: The Heart of Wellbeing and Positive Change
We all share a fundamental human need: the need to belong. It’s the deep-seated desire to feel connected, valued, and part of something larger than ourselves. This yearning finds its most profound expression within strong, supportive communities. Whether defined by the streets we call home, the shared passions that ignite our souls, or the digital spaces where we find kinship, these communities are the essential threads that intricately weave the rich tapestry of our individual and collective wellbeing. This holds especially true in the diverse and dynamic Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand.
Understanding the Multifaceted Nature of Community in the Bay of Plenty
Here in Te Puke, the wider Western Bay of Plenty, and the broader Bay of Plenty region, we recognize that “community” is far from a one-dimensional concept. It manifests in various interconnected ways, each playing a vital role in our lives:
-
Geographic Communities: The Foundation of Place
These are the physical places where we plant our roots – our vibrant neighborhoods, the welcoming towns like Te Puke and Maketu, and the bustling cities that anchor our region. Within these geographic communities, shared physical space fosters a strong sense of local identity, collective responsibility, and civic pride. Think of the unique character of each town in the Western Bay of Plenty, from the kiwifruit capital of Te Puke to the coastal charm of Maketu.
-
Social Communities: Bonds Forged Through Shared Experience
These are the groups we intentionally connect with, drawn together by shared interests, deeply held values, or the intricate web of human relationships. This could encompass a local sports club in the Western Bay of Plenty, where athletes and fans unite in their love of the game; a dedicated group of environmentalists across the Bay of Plenty committed to preserving our natural beauty; or a circle of colleagues in Tauranga collaborating on a groundbreaking project. Crucially, when our children embark on their educational journeys at institutions like Giggles Te Puke Early Learning Centre or Te Puke High School, we, as parents and caregivers, become integral members of those vital school communities, actively shaping the next generation. Even cultural groups like the Bay of Plenty Orchid Society, united by their passion for cultivating beautiful orchids, form strong and supportive social communities.
-
Virtual Communities: Connecting Across Distances in the Digital Age
In our increasingly interconnected and digitally driven world, online platforms transcend geographical boundaries, enabling us to forge connections with individuals who share our passions, interests, or experiences, regardless of where they reside. The “View from My Window” page, which gained global popularity during the challenging lockdowns, serves as a poignant example of how virtual spaces can provide invaluable solace, a powerful sense of shared experience, and a much-needed feeling of connection, even when physical interaction is limited.
UPCOMING COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS
EVENT | DATE | MORE INFO |
---|---|---|
2025 - Crop Swap Aotearoa/New Zealand | Sun, 29 Jun at 10:45 | Crop Swap Te Puke Region |
2025 - Treat Trail with Epic Te Puke | Fri, 31 Oct at 15:00 | Steam Punk Treat Trail 2025 |
2025 - Father’s Day Giveaway with Epic Te Puke | Fri, 5 Sep at 17:30 | EPIC Father's Day Night Market |
2025 - Te Kete Matariki - Te Puke | Fri, 20 Jun at 10:00 | Te Kete Matariki - Te Puke |
2025 - Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support | Sat, 28 Jun at 13:00 | https://www.facebook.com/events/1925320064903815/ |
2025 - Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support | Sat, 24 May at 13.00 | Sirens and Services in Merivale |
2025 - Santa Float Parade with Epic Te Puke | Sat, 6 Dec at 11:00 | Seeka Te Puke Christmas Float Parade |
2025 - The Picture Perfect Easter event | Sat, 26 Apr at 9:00 | Epic Te Puke’s Picture-Perfect Easter Trail |
2025 Food forest tour in Te Puke – Come join us to see what we have been up to | ||
2025 - Flavours of Plenty Kids Kai Trail | Sat 5 Apr 2025, 12:30pm–5:30pm | Kids Kai Trail at the Flavours of Plenty Festival |
2024 - Under The Stars Tauranga charity raffle | 12th August | Buy tickets for their fundraiser 😉 |
2024 - Join Us as We Celebrate the 65th Renaming of the Kiwifruit! 🥝 | Saturday, 31st August | 65th Renaming of the Kiwifruit! 🥝 |
2024 - Te Puke Spring Clean & Pizza Bash | Fri, 19 Sep at 15:00 | Te Puke Spring Clean & Pizza Bash |
2024 - Treat Trail with Epic Te Puke | Thu, 31 Oct 2024 | Treat Trail with Epic Te Puke |
2024 - Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support | Sat, 16 Nov 2024 | Sirens & Services, Koha Ice Cream Day, Gate Pā |
2022 - Te Kete Matariki - Te Puke | Fri, 24 Jun 2022 | Te Kete Matariki 2022 |
Regardless of the specific form they take, all communities, whether geographic, social, or virtual, are fundamentally built upon a bedrock of shared identity, a unifying purpose, or a common interest. This shared ground is the essential catalyst that compels us to interact with one another, to build meaningful relationships, and to extend support to those within our circle.
The Profound and Far-Reaching Importance of Community Cohesion in the Bay of Plenty
Strong, supportive communities are not merely a desirable amenity; they are, in fact, absolutely essential for fostering and nurturing both our individual and collective wellbeing. They provide us with a wealth of invaluable benefits:
-
A Deep Sense of Meaning, Belonging, and Connection: Combating Isolation and Fostering Purpose
Knowing that we are an integral part of a group that genuinely values us, understands our unique perspectives, and shares our collective experiences combats the pervasive feeling of isolation that can afflict individuals in modern society. It also instills within us a profound sense of purpose, giving our lives greater significance and direction. This is of paramount importance for promoting and safeguarding the mental and emotional health of all individuals across the diverse tapestry of the Bay of Plenty.
-
Invaluable Emotional, Practical, and Informational Support: The Community as a Safety Net
Communities function as vital safety nets, offering a lifeline of assistance and unwavering support during times of hardship, adversity, or personal crisis. They provide a nurturing environment where individuals can readily share valuable knowledge, exchange practical resources, and find a compassionate and empathetic listening ear. Consider the example of neighbors extending a helping hand to one another in Te Puke during a local emergency, the vital support networks established for families in Maketu to navigate the challenges of raising children, or the online groups that connect individuals across the Western Bay of Plenty, enabling them to share crucial resources and information. Organizations such as the Poutiri Charitable Trust play a key role in delivering essential health and wellbeing resources to individuals and families throughout the Bay of Plenty.
-
Abundant Opportunities for Personal Growth and Collaborative Innovation: The Community as a Catalyst for Progress
Communities serve as dynamic platforms for personal growth, skill development, and the collaborative pursuit of innovative solutions to shared challenges. They provide fertile ground for learning from one another, sharing expertise, and working together towards the achievement of common goals. This collaborative spirit is exemplified by organizations like EPIC Te Puke, which actively fosters partnerships to support innovation and entrepreneurship within the local economy.
Free Community Meals for Our Homeless and Hungry in Tauranga and Surrounds
DAY | ORGANISATION | ADDRESS | HOT DRINKS | MEAL |
---|---|---|---|---|
Every Monday | Kai Aroha | St Paul's Church, 242 Dickson Rd, Papamoa | Yes, from 5:00 PM | Dinner, 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM |
Every Monday | The Fat Brother | 50 First Avenue, Tauranga CBD | No | Dinner, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM |
Every Tuesday | St Peter's Church | St Peter's in the City, 130 Spring St, Tauranga | Yes, from 11:00 AM | Lunch, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM |
Every Tuesday | Arotaki Community Meal | Zambuk Way, Arataki | Yes, from 5:30 PM | Dinner, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM |
Every Wednesday | Elim Church | Elim Church 59 Koromiko St, Judea | Yes, from 6:00 PM | Dinner, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM |
Every Wednesday | Harvest Church | 21 Jocelyn St, Te Puke | No | Dinner, 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM |
Every Thursday | Tumanako | Lifezone Church, 7 Oak Lane, Judea | Yes, from 7:30 AM | Breakfast, 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM |
Every Thursday | Under the Stars | Cliff Rd Hall, 45 Cliff Rd, CBD | Yes, from 11:30 AM | Lunch, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM |
Every Friday | Mana | Greerton Community Hall, 1257 Cameron Rd, Greerton | Yes, from 5:00 PM | Dinner, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM |
Every Saturday | Under the Stars | Cliff Rd Hall, 45 Cliff Rd, CBD | Yes, from 4:30 PM | Dinner, 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
Every second Sunday | Jesus Safe Haven | Elizabeth St, Community Centre, 168 Elizabeth St CBD | Yes, from 9:00 AM | Breakfast, 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM |
Every Sunday | Te Puke Baptist Church | Baptist Church,Outside Sunnys, Jellicoe St, Te Puke | No | Dinner, 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM |
Free Showers in Tauranga and Surrounds | ||||
DAY | ORGANISATION | ADDRESS | TIME | TOWELS & TOILETRIES |
Every day | Arataki Community Centre | Zambuk Way, Arataki | 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM | Bring your own |
Thursday | Lifezone Church | 7 Oak Lane, Judea | 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM | Everything Supplied |
Thursday | Under The Stars | Cliff Rd Hall, 45 Cliff Rd, CBD | 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM | Everything Supplied |
Saturday | Under The Stars | Cliff Rd Hall, 45 Cliff Rd, CBD | 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM | Everything Supplied |
Free Laundry in Tauranga and Surrounds | ||||
DAY | ORGANISATION | ADDRESS | TIME | DETERGENT ETC |
Thursday | Lifezone Church | 7 Oak Lane, Judea | 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM | Everything Supplied |
Beyond these individual benefits, community cohesion also cultivates a range of crucial social and economic advantages:
-
The Foundation of Trust and Cooperation: The Glue That Holds Society Together
When individuals feel a strong sense of connection to those around them, they are significantly more likely to develop deep-seated trust in their neighbors, local leaders, and community institutions. This pervasive trust, in turn, fosters a spirit of cooperation and collective action, empowering community members to work together effectively for the betterment of the entire community. This collaborative spirit is beautifully illustrated by community events like the Sikh Parade Te Puke, where people from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate shared values and build bridges of understanding. This is absolutely vital for building resilient, harmonious, and thriving communities throughout the Bay of Plenty.
-
A Powerful Driver of Improved Health Outcomes: The Link Between Connection and Wellbeing
A wealth of research has consistently demonstrated a strong and undeniable link between robust social connections and significantly improved physical and mental health outcomes. In cohesive communities, individuals are far more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and seeking timely medical care. They also benefit from the presence of strong support networks that provide emotional resilience and promote overall wellbeing.
-
A Catalyst for Economic Prosperity and Regional Resilience: The Community as a Source of Strength
Cohesive communities possess a remarkable ability to attract external investment, foster local economic growth, and adapt effectively to the inevitable challenges and changes that life throws their way. This inherent resilience, born from strong social ties and a spirit of collective action, strengthens the entire Bay of Plenty region, making it more prosperous and better equipped to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.
The Indispensable Role of Local Organizations: The Vector Group Charitable Trust’s Commitment to the Bay of Plenty
Community cohesion is not a passive phenomenon; it does not simply emerge spontaneously. Rather, it demands active cultivation, consistent nurturing, and a dedicated commitment from individuals, community groups, and local leaders. Local organizations play an absolutely vital role in this process, serving as the essential catalysts that bring people together, provide crucial support services, and address the unique and evolving needs of their communities.
Organizations such as the Vector Group Charitable Trust stand as shining examples of this commitment, actively embodying these principles in their tireless work and demonstrating an unwavering dedication to the Bay of Plenty. The Trust’s collaborative spirit is evident in its extensive network of partnerships with numerous local entities, all united by a shared vision of a stronger, more connected, and more vibrant community.
TE PUKE/MAKETU EVENTS CALENDAR
The Vector Group Charitable Trust’s multifaceted contributions include:
-
Fostering Economic and Social Development: A Catalyst for Progress
The Trust works hand-in-hand with organizations like EPIC Te Puke to champion initiatives that drive both economic growth and social progress within the region. This collaborative approach ensures that economic prosperity goes hand-in-hand with enhanced quality of life for all residents.
-
Celebrating Arts, Culture, and Local Talent: Enriching the Community’s Soul
The Trust actively supports the flourishing of arts and culture within the Bay of Plenty, recognizing their profound ability to enrich lives, foster creativity, and build a stronger sense of community identity. This commitment is exemplified by its involvement with groups such as the Te Puke Repertory Society, which brings the magic of theater to local audiences, and its sponsorship of the prestigious Te Puke Business Excellence Awards, which celebrates the outstanding achievements and contributions of local businesses and entrepreneurs.
-
Championing Environmental Stewardship: Protecting Our Natural Heritage
The Trust demonstrates a deep respect for the natural environment and actively collaborates with groups like Food Forests Tauranga and Ngapeke Permaculture to promote sustainable practices, environmental awareness, and the preservation of the region’s unique ecological heritage.
-
Supporting Families, Youth, and Wellbeing: Investing in the Future
Recognizing the fundamental importance of strong families and healthy youth in building a thriving community, the Trust provides crucial support to organizations such as the Te Puke Plunket Clinic, which delivers vital healthcare services to mothers and children, and the Te Puke Toy Library, which provides valuable resources for early childhood development.
-
Enhancing Community Spaces and Recreation: Creating Vibrant Places to Connect
The Trust understands the vital role that accessible and well-maintained community spaces and recreational facilities play in fostering social interaction, promoting physical activity, and enhancing overall quality of life. This commitment is reflected in its support for initiatives such as the development of the Te Puke Skatepark and the creation of the Te Puke Dog Park at Lawrence Oliver Park.
-
Promoting Spiritual and Pastoral Care: Nurturing the Inner Life of the Community
The Trust recognizes the importance of spiritual and emotional wellbeing within the community and supports organizations like Lifewalk Chaplaincy in School, which provides invaluable pastoral care and guidance to students.
-
Celebrating Cultural Diversity and Inclusion: Embracing the Region’s Rich Tapestry
The Trust actively supports initiatives that celebrate the cultural richness and diversity of the Bay of Plenty, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion for all residents. This commitment is exemplified by its partnerships with groups like Pasifika in the Bay Trust, which promotes the vibrant cultures of the Pacific Islands.
-
Supporting Local Businesses and Media: The Interconnected Web of Community
The Trust recognizes the vital role that local businesses and media play in the community’s ecosystem. It supports the success of businesses like Trevelyan’s, a key player in the region’s kiwifruit industry, and operates a media outlet Te Puke Digital to ensure that residents are well-informed about local events and issues.
-
Enhancing Community Infrastructure and Connectivity: Building a Stronger Foundation
The Trust supports practical initiatives that improve community infrastructure and connectivity, such as the development of the Te Puke Te Ara Kahikatea Pathway, which provides a safe and accessible route for pedestrians and cyclists, and the maintenance and enhancement of the Te Puke War Memorial Hall, website to promoting such a great venue, a significant community gathering place in Te Puke.
-
Fostering Community Engagement and Participation: Empowering Residents
The Trust actively encourages community engagement and participation in local affairs, supporting initiatives such as the Te Puke Community Garden, which provides a space for residents to connect with nature and grow their own food, and working with groups like People First Te Puke, which advocates for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
-
Celebrating Creativity, Arts, and Entertainment: Enriching Lives Through Shared Experiences
The Trust recognizes the power of the arts and entertainment to bring people together, inspire creativity, and enrich lives. This commitment is evident in its support for organizations like the Te Puke Dance Studio, which provides opportunities for residents to express themselves through dance, and its collaboration with groups like Film Bay of Plenty which bring film and outdoor cinema experiences to the community and Under the Stars Tauranga that serve the homeless and hungry.
-
Supporting Unique Local Identities and Initiatives: Celebrating the Quirks That Make Us Special
The Trust embraces and celebrates the unique identities and initiatives that make each community special, even supporting local figures or events like Sooty.nz, recognizing their role in contributing to the community’s character.
-
Promoting Health and Wellbeing Through Diverse Activities: Fostering a Holistic Approach
The Trust supports a wide range of activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, from the practice of Tai Chi Internal Arts to the community-building spirit of groups like Iron Shin Thai Boxing.
-
Supporting Community-Driven Projects: Empowering Local Solutions
The Trust actively supports community-driven projects such as POTTED and initiatives connected to Te Kete Matariki – Te Puke, recognizing the power of local solutions to address local needs.
The extensive and diverse work of the Vector Group Charitable Trust and its numerous partners serves as a powerful testament to the fact that community cohesion is not a solitary endeavor; it is, by its very nature, a collaborative effort. It requires the active and sustained engagement of individuals, community organizations, local businesses, and local government, all working together in harmony towards a shared vision of a thriving, inclusive, and resilient Bay of Plenty.
Overcoming the Obstacle of Bias: A Crucial Step Towards True Unity and Equity
In our collective pursuit of building truly cohesive communities, it is imperative that we confront and address the pervasive issue of social inequalities. A significant and often insidious barrier to achieving genuine unity and equity is the presence of bias.
Bias, whether it manifests as conscious prejudice or unconscious assumptions, has the potential to inflict significant harm. It can lead to unfair judgments about individuals or groups, perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and fuel discriminatory practices. When we engage in the act of “externalizing” problems, attributing them solely to the actions or characteristics of others while absolving ourselves of any responsibility, we create a climate of blame and avoidance. This, in turn, erodes empathy, hinders constructive dialogue, and makes it exceedingly difficult to identify and implement effective solutions to complex social challenges.
Bias contributes significantly to the creation and perpetuation of systemic inequalities, subtly shifting the burden of responsibility away from powerful institutions and onto marginalized groups. This insidious process exacerbates societal polarization, fuels conflict, and deepens social divisions, creating a destructive “us versus them” mentality that actively hinders our ability to cultivate empathy and understanding for the lived experiences of others who face unique challenges within our communities. Regrettably, this destructive dynamic can take root and flourish in any community, regardless of its location or demographics.
Empowering Ourselves and Our Communities: A Path Towards Positive Change
The good news is that we are not powerless in the face of these challenges. We possess the collective capacity to build more cohesive, equitable, and just communities for all. This transformative journey begins with a fundamental commitment to personal responsibility and a willingness to engage in continuous self-improvement.
Vector Group Projects including installs and produce sown into our communities
Here are some concrete steps we can take, both individually and collectively, to foster positive change:
-
Educate Ourselves and Our Communities: Cultivating Awareness and Understanding
One of the most powerful tools we have at our disposal is education. By actively seeking out information, engaging in open and honest conversations, and educating ourselves and our communities about the various forms of bias, prejudice, and discrimination, as well as their far-reaching consequences, we can promote greater awareness, cultivate deeper understanding, and foster a culture of respect and empathy within our families, friendship circles, workplaces, and the wider Bay of Plenty community.
-
Practice Empathy, Self-Reflection, and Accountability: Embracing Personal Responsibility
We must actively cultivate the invaluable skills of empathy, self-reflection, and accountability. This involves consciously striving to see the world from the perspectives of others, particularly those who have had experiences vastly different from our own. It also entails regularly reflecting on our own actions, biases, and assumptions, and taking full responsibility for our behavior, both individually and as members of a larger community. By embracing these practices, we can significantly improve our interpersonal relationships, build stronger connections with those around us, and contribute to the creation of a more just and equitable society in Te Puke, Maketu, and throughout the Bay of Plenty.
-
Recognize the Potential for Unintentional Harm: Fostering Forgiveness and Understanding
It is crucial to acknowledge that not all negative experiences or perceived slights are necessarily the result of malicious intent. By cultivating an awareness that harm can sometimes be unintentional, we can foster a greater sense of forgiveness, promote understanding, and create a more compassionate and supportive community environment for all.
-
Actively Engage in Community Initiatives: The Power of Collective Action
One of the most effective ways to build community cohesion is to actively engage in local initiatives. This can take many forms, including participating in community events, volunteering our time and skills to local organizations, supporting local businesses, advocating for positive change, and contributing to community-driven projects. By working together towards shared goals, we strengthen the bonds that connect us and create a more vibrant and resilient community.
-
Champion Inclusion and Equity: Ensuring That All Voices Are Heard and Valued
It is absolutely essential to actively promote inclusion and equity in all aspects of community life. This means working tirelessly to ensure that the voices of all residents, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances, are not only heard but also genuinely valued in decision-making processes that shape the future of our communities.
With financial support of funding from COGS and Lottery Communities, we have been able to service our community.
Grants approved for COGS
12/7/2018 – 11/7/2019
21/7/2022 – 20/7/2023
Grants approved for Lottery Communities – 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023
2/10/2018 – 1/10/2019
25/9/2019 – 24/9/2022
28/9/2022 – 27/9/2024
From my own personal experience, working within a supportive and inclusive community environment has had a profound and transformative impact on my personal self-worth, overall wellbeing, and sense of belonging. I have witnessed firsthand the incredible power of community to uplift individuals, strengthen families, and create a more positive and vibrant society.
I firmly believe that collectively, our individual and collective efforts to build stronger connections, foster greater understanding, and address inequalities create a powerful ripple effect, radiating outwards to positively influence the lives of those around us, the dynamics of our communities, and the overall trajectory of the entire Bay of Plenty region.
Positive and lasting change must inevitably begin somewhere. It must start with each and every one of us, making a conscious and unwavering commitment to contribute to the creation of a more connected, compassionate, understanding, and equitable Bay of Plenty for ourselves, for future generations, and for all who call this beautiful region home.
Beyond these partnerships, the Vector Group Charitable Trust actively initiates and supports vital community projects. Their initiating Troppo’s Tropical Urban Food Forest www.troppo.nz showcases their commitment to local food resilience and community building. Through Te Puke Digital web development and events media coverage www.tepuke.digital, they empower local businesses and enhance community communication. The Trust also champions initiatives like Food Resilience School NZ www.foodresilience.school.nz, fostering crucial skills for sustainable living within the region. Their support for the Crops Swap Te Puke/Maketu region CROP SWAP TE PUKE/MAKETU demonstrates their dedication to local food sharing and community connection at a grassroots level.
Hashtags:
#CommunityCohesion #BayOfPlenty #TePuke #Maketu #WesternBayOfPlenty #LocalOrganizations #SocialInclusion #CommunityDevelopment #Wellbeing #NewZealand #Aotearoa #VectorGroupCharitableTrust #EpicTePuke #CommunitySupport #Diversity #Equity #SocialJustice #StrongerTogether #ActiveCitizenship #LocalHeroes
Kiwifruit Celebration event
Kiwifruit 60th Naming Anniversary Celebration 2019
Kiwifruit 65th Anniversary Celebration 2024 = UPCOMING
Matariki events
Te Kete Matariki – Te Puke 2022
Te Kete Matariki – Te Puke 2023
Te Kete Matariki – Te Puke 2024
Treat Trail events
Treat Trail Parade 2017
Treat Trail Parade 2018
Treat Trail Parade 2019
Treat Trail Parade 2020
Treat Trail Parade 2021
Treat Trail Parade 2022
Treat Trail Parade 2023
Spooky movies film competition 2023
Treat Trail Parade 2024 – UPCOMING
Christmas events
Christmas Float Parade 2017
Christmas Float Parade 2018
Christmas Float Parade 2019
Christmas Float Parade 2020
Christmas Float Parade 2021
Christmas Float Parade 2022
Christmas Float Parade 2023
Christmas Float Parade 2024 – UPCOMING
Christmas in the Park
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2014
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2015
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2016
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2017
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2018
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2019
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2020
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2021
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2022
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2023
Te Puke Christmas in the Park 2024 – UPCOMING
Easter events
Easter trail 2021
Easter trail 2022
Easter trail 2023
EPIC Egg-Stravaganza – Easter Sculpture Trail & Fair 2024 – UPCOMING
Spring Clean events
Te Puke Spring Clean and Pizza Party 2020
Te Puke Spring Clean and Pizza Party 2021
Te Puke Spring Clean and Pizza Party 2022
Te Puke Spring Clean and Pizza Party 2023
Te Puke Spring Clean and Pizza Party 2024 – UPCOMING
48 Hour Film Competition
48 Hour Film Competition 2017
48 Hour Film Competition 2018
48 Hour Film Competition 2019
48 Hour Film Competition 2020
48 Hour Film Competition 2021
48 Hour Film Competition 2022
48 Hour Film Competition 2023
Kai Resilience
116 tonnes of product
238 Raised beds kiwi bins installed in community
Setup Nursery in Te Puke
Setup website Troppo for Plant and tropical plant grower communities
Tauranga Food Forest Group
Tropical Food Growers, Syntropic Agroforestry & Food Forests Bay of Plenty
Kai resilience workshops and training, volunteerism
Food forest tours
Syntropic agroforestry workshops
Te Puke Business Excellence Awards
2013
2015
2017
2018
2021
2023
CACTUS
Te Puke High School
Setup Vector Group Charitable Trust, branding, vision, strategy.
Established as Police Vetting Agency
Established our Inclusion policy that is accessible online.
Established free Wi-Fi for youth at The Loft, study, tables, resources.
Deployed scalable CRM for Te Puke Community, VGCT long term vision
Completed feasibility surveys and compiled statistics and conversations
VGCT Intellectual Property established under Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 New Zealand
Loaned Film Gear to Anton Steel for the Z-Nail Gang Community Feature Film
Training for NiVans how to use computers for Kylie from Fruit of the Pacific
Volunteer support packing container destined for Vanuatu
Design of Christmas in the Park Banners for Te Puke
Design of Easter in the Park Banners for Te Puke
Branding for Papamoa Baptist Church
Chinese church use of the The Loft every Saturday night
Launched Vector Group Charitable Trust website
Volunteer Support – Easter Camp
Volunteer Support – Alternative Education, Teacher Aid
Volunteer Support – Alternative Education moving School premises
Volunteer Support – Te Puke High School – Chaplaincy,
Volunteer Support – Lifewalk Chaplaincy in Schools
Volunteer Support – Quiz Fundraiser
Volunteer Support – Market Day
Volunteer Support – Lions Club Book Fair pack down
Volunteer Support – Putting flags up through Te Puke with Grant Dally
Volunteer Support – working in kitchen for the DAILY alongside Rebecca prior to launch.
Successfully got a mobile app blocked for Schools in Te Puke (bullying)
Digital Empowering Workshop TGA Gallery
Coke Pop-Up Party – The Loft Launch
After School Social Table Tennis at The Loft
Volunteer Support – CACTUS TPHS, 3 years, 16 weeks a year, 3 mornings a week
First Aid Course Training
Took youth to the Film Commission, Fresh Shorts Roadshow at the Digital Basement in Rotorua
Te Puke Skate Park Competition
Te Puke High School Pop-Up Ball Shop -Clothing, Jewellery and Shoes
Te Puke High School Pop-Up Ball Beauty Day – hair, makeup, nails, food
Te Puke High School Ball Photography
Pizza and Politics Q&A with Todd McClay at The Loft
BOP Film Networking Night in Tauranga
Te Puke Film Launch with Anton Steel from BOP FILM presenting
#HP48HOURS Network Meeting at BOP Film in Tauranga
#HP48HOURS Film Weekend
Te Puke Directory goes live.
#HP48HOURS City Finals and Presentations of awards
#HP48HOURS Best Cinematography BOP
#HP48HOURS Runner-Up City Award BOP
Volunteer Support at Tony’s Cafe and Kebabs
Private birthday functions for youth at The Loft
Lifewalk Chaplaincy in School BOP Supervision at The Loft
Te Puke Baptist Church Youth senior leaders debrief at The Loft
Pio’s Parenting Show organising committee use of The Loft
The Daily Cafe Strategic Planning meetings with Exult held in The Loft
The Daily Cafe used The Loft for private staff meeting.
Build and Deploy Tony’s Cafe and Kebabs a website and hosted for free.
Build and Deploy Mark R. Boyle a website to his liking
Re-Development of the Te Puke Goodness Grows Here website
Loaned film gear to Te Puke High School students to complete a film project {worth ten credits}
Launched TEPUKEMAG, a local magazine that celebrates our journey together Launched Te Puke Film Website
Building a new online loan library and website for the Te Puke Toy Library
Building a new website for Te Puke Rotary
Developed and deployed a health and safety auditing and forms system for BMINZ and SAFERTEAM
Developed and deployed a Facebook data scraper for business and non-profits in Te Puke
Supplied a room to BMINZ to setup as a PTE in Te Puke
Volunteer support for EPIC’s Halloween Event
Winner of the VOM short film competition
Volunteer support for TV Show, How Did You Do That
Winner of the Laidlaw College film competition
Photography booked for EPIC’s Christmas Parade
Photography sessions with youth- upskilling, experience, cv building
Free rent, utilities to the Te Puke Community Hub – Police Volunteers
Sourced- The Philosophical Journal of Conflict and Violence from Romania to send to NZ academic Institutions
Published a paper on Numbers 25 critiquing Sacred Violence and Scapegoating
Supplied sound gear to Plunket for their official opening, also filmed and did photography free of charge
Begun working with WBOPDC on stage 2 of the skate park
Establishing a youth and community led op-shop as a social enterprise
Photo shoot with local legend Emma who is fighting in the upcoming Iron Shin Event
Volunteer support to the Te Ara Kahikatea Society Walkway group
Planned videography and IT support for the upcoming 2017 Environmental Expo
Transferred a Historical Website to new servers and set up dedicated domain for Christine Clement
In conversations with TP EDG and Mark R Boyle around Tourism, Business, collaboration and combined focus.
Optimised Epic website in time for 1 year birthday and offered free IT support where needed.
Volunteer Support – cleaned and stacked shelving upon 123 Dollar shop closing for Poutiri Trust
Photography for SaferTeam Health and Safety packages
Photography of products for HandPicked Herbal Teas in Warkworth
Issued Certificates of Excellence to 13 youth for their amazing effort in the #HP48HOURS
Te Puke Film T-shirts printed
Business and Community show reels project begun
Nominated for 2017 Trustpower community awards
Nominated for 2017 Te Puke Business awards
Gave opportunity for youth to attend the Drama Cinematography workshop with the famous Donny Duncan
Fitted Te Puke Hero- Pearl Solomon with a brand-new dress for an Auckland conference speaking engagement
In Process of setting up the Te Puke Skate Park Club
Volunteer Support for the 2017 Clean Up Week
CACTUS awarded “Stephen and Tracey Fawcett “Trophy to be cycled to deserving CACTUS participants.
Photography – 2017 Hawaiian Luau Casino Night organised by Monique Lints (Toy Library)
Photography for TPHS – requested by a group of students
BOP Film Networking event in Whakatane
Hon Paul Goldsmith (Minister of Science and Innovation) visited the loft (Vector Group Charitable Trust)
Supplied and set up sound gear for Prime Minister John Key
Nominated Te Puke Business Awards 2018
Photography for Te Puke Business Awards 2018
Setup and supported first annual disability conference in Te Puke alongside People First
National Dance Battle Event
Show Reel for National Dance Battle Event
Mowing lawns for those in need
Helped move people in need
Built Auckland Property Values Website
Built and Maintain Te Puke Hall Website
Maintain TP EDG online presence
Built and manage Kansai Sushi website
Built and Manage COLAB website
Built and Manage Te Puke Community Centre website
Built and Manage Social Sector Directory website
Redevelopment of BMINZ Website
Redevelopment of Vector Group Website
Branding Design for COLAB
COLAB Steering Committee
Sound System Supplied for Te Puke Community Expo
Photography for Te Puke Sihk Festival 2019
Kiwifruit Slices Making of Promo Video
Photography and Video for Te Puke Repertory Society
Hosted Sihk Festival
Launched COVID-19 Website
Easter Poster Competition
Raspberry Pi 4 Competition
Launched Kids Corner during COVID lockdown
Health and Safety Video Training Videos for ITM
Health and Safety Video Training Videos for HEB Construction
Setup online COVID response form for COLAB
Suicide support
Transitional housing
Self contained accommodation