Get Local-ised at an Our Neighbourhood event this summer

Taupō District Council’s popular Our Neighbourhood series of community events are back for the 2011/12 summer season. Taupō District residents are encouraged to find their nearest event and come along for a chance to meet their neighbours in a fun and free community get-together.

From December 2011 to March 2012, free community events will be held in Taupō, Mangakino and Turangi with the aim of providing opportunities for locals to interact and get to know each other. Activities will include a free BBQ, live music, some good old fashioned family fun and games, and a heap of exciting prizes and giveaways.

The Our Neighbourhood events are now in their third year and Strategic Relationships Advisor, Cornelia Dempsey, says the Christchurch earthquakes and other catastrophes around the world have highlighted the need for community connectedness and the importance of 'getting to know your neighbours'.

“We see more and more how important it is to know the people around you, you never know when you may need to call on them for help and support. Our Community Partners, including the Civil Defence team, will be available to provide helpful advice and resources to ensure your family are prepared.”

Ms Dempsey says the events are a joint effort involving Taupō District Council, Neighbourhood Support, Taupō Civil Defence, Taupō Safe District, the Taupō District Book Bus, Life Education Trust, Café for Youth Health and Sport Waikato. “Thanks to our community partners for their continued support of the Our Neighbourhood vision and a special welcome to some new friends this season; Taupo Violence Intervention Network and Midlands Health Network.”

“And a huge thanks to our sponsors; Tuwharetoa Health, Experience Taupo, Maxprint, Taupo Hirepool and More FM. These events would not be possible without their generous assistance.”

Look for an Our Neighbourhood event at a reserve near you:

• Nukuhau Sportsgrounds, Taupō – 5.00-7.00pm, Thursday 8 December 2011
• Te Kura O Hirangi, Turangi – 4.00-6.00pm, Thursday 15 December 2011
• Lake Front Recreational Reserve, Mangakino – 4.00-6.00pm, Thursday 12 January 2012
• Kamu Crescent Reserve, Wairakei – 5.00-7.00pm, Thursday 26 January 2012
• Tamatea Reserve, Taupō – 5.00-7.00pm, Thursday 9 February 2012
• Crescent Reserve, Turangi – 4.00-6.00pm, Thursday 16 February 2012
• Pihanga Reserve, Taupō – 5.00-7.00pm Thursday 1 March 2012
• Brice Street Reserve, Taupō – 5.00-7.00pm Thursday 8 March 2012

Listen to More FM for weather postponements.