A Day of Unity and Joy: Sirens and Services Merivale Celebrates Community and Whānau

The sun shone brightly on Merivale School, setting the stage for a truly remarkable event: the Sirens and Services Merivale day. This free, family-focused celebration transformed the school into a vibrant hub of connection, learning, and pure enjoyment. Organized by Neighbourhood Support Western Bay of Plenty, the third annual Sirens and Services day was a resounding success, drawing families far and near. The event showcased the incredible spirit of the Merivale community and the dedication of numerous organizations committed to its wellbeing. MP Jan Tinetti joined in the festivities, highlighting the importance of community engagement.

Whānau Fun and Laughter

The atmosphere was electric with laughter and excitement. Families enjoyed a wide array of free activities, designed to create lasting memories. Delicious free sausages sizzled on the barbecue, while the sweet aroma of candyfloss filled the air. Children’s faces transformed into works of art with vibrant face painting, and the smiles were infectious.

But the fun didn’t stop there! A special highlight for both kids and adults was the virtual reality (VR) experience. Participants were transported to exciting new worlds, adding a touch of futuristic entertainment to the day’s festivities. The VR zone proved to be a popular attraction, sparking curiosity and wonder in attendees of all ages.

Goody Bags Galore!

As families explored the event, they participated in a fun and engaging “passport” challenge. By visiting different organization booths and learning about their services, attendees collected stamps in their passports. Upon completion, they were rewarded with a fantastic bag of household essentials, generously provided by New World. These goody bags added an extra element of excitement and provided families with practical items to take home.

Celebrating Community and Support

The Sirens and Services day was more than just a fun day out; it was a powerful demonstration of community support and collaboration. Twenty-four organizations came together to connect with local families and provide valuable information about their services. From emergency services like the Police, Fire Department, and Hato Hone St John, to community support groups, attendees had the opportunity to learn about a wide range of resources available to them. Free health checks, haircuts, safety education, free vaccinations, and CPR demonstrations were just a few of the many offerings.

The event’s theme, “hauora” or “wellbeing,” was woven throughout the day’s activities. People gained insights into everything from smear tests to scam prevention, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and safety.

A Community United

Event coordinator Rebecca Larsen emphasized the importance of building strong community relationships, stating, “Neighbourhood Support is about bringing people together in safety.” Gemma Cramp from Merivale Community Centre echoed this sentiment, highlighting the goal for families to “leave with more than they arrived with – as well as the information they need to support their family.”

The success of the Sirens and Services Merivale day is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the dedication of organizations like Neighbourhood Support Western Bay of Plenty and the Merivale Community Centre. It was a day where neighbors met, families learned, and everyone felt supported, reinforcing the strong, connected spirit of Merivale.

Vector Group Charitable Trust: Champions of Community

The Vector Group Charitable Trust, an enthusiastic supporter of this and many other community initiatives, embodies a vision for sustainable communities that thrive creatively. Their broad mission encompasses fostering economic and social development, telling story, celebrating arts and culture, championing environmental stewardship, supporting families and youth, enhancing community spaces, promoting spiritual care, and celebrating cultural diversity. Events like Sirens and Services align perfectly with their dedication to empowering communities and fostering a sense of belonging for all.

For more information about future community events and initiatives, be sure to follow Neighbourhood Support Western Bay of Plenty and the Merivale Community Centre.

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