Community Meals for Our Homeless and Hungry

Free community meals are a lifeline for many in Tauranga, providing not just nourishment but also a sense of connection and community. In a city celebrated for its beautiful beaches and vibrant lifestyle, a network of dedicated charities, churches, and volunteer groups work tirelessly to ensure that no one goes hungry.

These initiatives are about more than just food; they are a safe space where individuals and families can find dignity, friendship, and support without judgment. From hot, sit-down dinners to convenient food parcels and street-side food vans, there are numerous options available across Tauranga for those in need.

A Look at Some of the Tauranga Initiatives

Several organizations are at the forefront of providing free meals to the community. Here are just a few examples:

• Arataki Community Centre: Serves community meals every Tuesday night from 6pm – 7pm.

• St Peters in the City: Hosts a community lunch for the homeless and disadvantaged every Tuesday, with a hot drink at 11am followed by a hot meal at 11.30am.

• Tauranga Elim Church – StreetReach: Provides hot food every Wednesday from 6:30pm.

• Kai Aroha: Offers a free community sit-down meal on Monday nights at St Paul’s Church in Papamoa.

• Lifezone Church: Provides breakfast every Thursday morning from 7:30am, along with access to showers and laundry facilities.

• Vinnies ‘Project Fullstop’: Operates a food van that travels to various suburbs in Tauranga, offering soup, sandwiches, and hot drinks.

Under the Stars: A Beacon of Hope in the City Centre

A shining example of community care in Tauranga is the organization Under the Stars. Founded in 2014, this charitable trust has become a vital support system for the city’s homeless and hungry.

Every Thursday at 12pm and Saturday at 5pm, a dedicated team of volunteers serves a healthy, home-cooked meal to over 100 guests at their Cliff Road location. But their service goes far beyond a meal. Under the Stars provides hot showers, toiletries, and clothing, and offers a safe, consistent place for people to connect and be treated with dignity. They work with partner organizations like Good Neighbour to rescue food and are a testament to the power of kindness and compassion.

Whether it’s a family struggling to make ends meet, an elderly person living alone, or someone sleeping rough, these community meals offer a helping hand and a warm welcome. They are a powerful reminder that in Tauranga, the spirit of manaakitanga—hospitality and care—is alive and well.

To find more information on times and locations for these services, or to learn how you can help, check out the Mana Kai Mana Ora website or contact the individual organizations directly.

Free Community Meals for Our Homeless and Hungry in Tauranga and Surrounds