If you would like to join one of our club meetings or events, let Michaelknow, email tawarotaryclub@gmail.comor speak to one of our members. We would be delighted to welcome you.
Tawa
There are many famous Rotarians of course and the best ones live in Tawa!
Presidents piece
Welcome to our first bulletin of the 2026/27 Rotary year!
I apologise if things have been a little quiet lately, but I feel like we're finally getting our act together, thanks in no small part to my dear friend and right-hand, Gurtej, whose support, patience, and hard work have been invaluable.
As you'll see throughout this bulletin, there's plenty happening in and around Rotary Tawa. From inspiring speakers and community projects to social events and opportunities to get involved, we're looking forward to another fantastic year of service, friendship, and fun.
I couldn't be prouder of our members. Whether it's supporting local causes, organising events, raising funds, championing youth initiatives, or simply lending a helping hand, our club is filled with people who care deeply about making a positive difference. Their generosity, enthusiasm, and commitment are what make Rotary Tawa such a vibrant and welcoming part of our community.
Since moving to Tawa, I have fallen in love with its people and community spirit. Time and again, I see neighbours helping neighbours, volunteers stepping up, and community groups working together to make our corner of the world a little better. Rotary is proud to be part of that story.
Together, we're building connections, creating opportunities, and helping make Tawa an even better place to live, work, and belong.
So, if you see one of us around town, please stop and say hello. We'd love to meet you and hear what matters to you.
If you're not sure who your local Rotarians are, don't worry, there's a special treat further down in this bulletin! Better yet, come along to one of our meetings. We'd love to welcome you and show you what Rotary is all about. Who knows, you might even discover that Rotary is for you!
To our members: Thank you for everything you do. Please keep bringing along your ideas, your energy, your friends, and your passion for service. The more people we connect with, the better we can do together.
Secretary piece
There has been plenty happening around Tawa lately, reminding us once again what an active and generous community we are fortunate to be part of. Our Concert in the Park recently received recognition in Rotary Down Under, reflecting the community pride and participation that make Tawa such a special place: https://rotarydownunder.org/tawa-community/
I was sorry to miss Stock the Pantry at New World Tawa on Saturday because of work commitments. Thank you to everyone who gave their time, encouraged shoppers to contribute and helped support local families through the Tawa Foodbank. These practical, community-facing activities are Rotary at its best, bringing people together and turning everyday generosity into meaningful local support.
With the recent polar blast bringing such cold weather across Wellington, I hope everyone in Tawa is keeping warm and looking after themselves and their neighbours. It is a timely reminder of the importance of checking in on one another, especially those who may be more vulnerable during these chilly conditions.
Ngā mihi / Regards Gurtej
Last week
Last week's club meeting, our first for the 2026-2027 Rotary year, was a great success and tremendous fun.
We are embarking on an important journey together. I understand that change is not always easy, but standing still is not an option. To remain relevant and successful, we must modernise the way we operate and engage with our community. Growth comes from challenge, and while the path forward may require us to think differently and embrace new approaches, these are the moments that strengthen us. Together, we will build a modern club that is ready for the future while staying true to the values that define us.
I am proud to say that there are many remarkable Rotarians across the world, throughout New Zealand, and especially within our own club. You are a group of inspiring, dedicated, and talented people, and I am very proud to be part of this fantastic team.
Pat, our esteemed Past President and former District Governor, shared insights from his work with the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry.
His experiences highlighted the deeply challenging nature of the inquiry and the many tragic stories of abuse and neglect that were brought to light. Pat spoke thoughtfully about the impact this work had on survivors, their whānau, and all those involved in seeking truth, accountability, and healing.
His reflections were both moving and thought-provoking, reminding us of the importance of listening to and supporting those who have experienced harm.
On another note, a reminder that it's okay not to be okay.
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly with stories of abuse and the really hard things in life.
Your mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health. If you, a family member, friend, or colleague need someone to talk to, free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through 1737 Need to Talk? Simply call or text 1737 to connect with a trained counsellor or peer support worker. The service is available to anyone in New Zealand, anytime, for any reason.
Stock the Pantry: Tawa Community Steps Up
The generosity of the Tawa community was on full display during this year's Stock the Pantry appeal. Thanks to the incredible support of local residents, with $500.00 donated, and 17 banana boxes were filled with food and essential household items for families in need, that went to the Tawa Food bank, managed by Salvation Army Tawa.
These donations will make a real difference in the lives of local people facing hardship this winter. Every can, packet, and household item donated represents far more than practical support. It represents kindness, hope, and the knowledge that our community cares.
The need for food support remains significant. Food insecurity continues to affect far too many New Zealand families, with rising living costs making it increasingly difficult for some households to put nutritious meals on the table. Behind the statistics are real people facing difficult choices between food, housing, power, and other essentials. For many, food banks provide a vital lifeline during challenging times.
Perhaps most concerning is the impact on children. No child should have to go hungry or worry about where their next meal will come from. Community initiatives such as Stock the Pantry help ensure that families receive the support they need when they need it most.
A special thank you to John at Sprig & Fern for sponsoring the sausage sizzle, and to Hamish and the team at New World Tawa for providing the collection space and generously supporting this event.
We are also grateful for the support of our friends at Inner Wheel and the Salvation Army Tawa, whose partnership and commitment helped make the event such a success.
Last but not least, thank you to Etienne and Guardian Funeral Home for their ongoing support, particularly with advertising and the creation of the fantastic promotional posters that helped make this event a success.
Finally, thank you to our Rotary members and volunteers who gave their time, energy, and enthusiasm throughout the day.
Our communities generosity demonstrates the wonderful spirit of Tawa and Rotary's commitment to supporting those in our community who need a helping hand. Together, we are making a difference, one donation at a time.
Lastly, we added 450 cans and food items to Rotary's Cans for a cause, helping to get the project on its way to 1,00,000 cans of food donated.
Quiz Night at the Sprig & Fern!
Get ready for a fun-filled evening of friendly competition, laughter, and community spirit at our Quiz Night on Saturday, 27 September, from 6:00 pm at the Sprig & Fern, Tawa.
We have just confirmed today, that the proceed will go to WellFed an amazing local charity helping whanau to get ahead in life.
Some of you will remember them from our OPen evening.
Gather your friends, family, colleagues, and neighbours and put your knowledge to the test, all while supporting a great cause. Proceeds from the evening will go towards a local charity, which will be announced soon.
Whether you're a trivia champion or just keen for a great night out, everyone is welcome. Come along, enjoy the atmosphere, and help us make a difference in our community.
Date: Saturday, 27 September Time: 6:00 pm Venue: Sprig & Fern, Tawa Save the date and join us for a fantastic evening of fun, friendship, and fundraising!
Twenty Years of Turning Pages into Possibilities
Tawa Rotary's 2026 Book Fair was another outstanding success, raising $9,598 over ten days in July.
Now in its 20th year, the Book Fair has become a cherished community tradition, made possible by the generosity of book donors, dedicated volunteers, supportive local businesses, and community organisations that work together to make it happen.
The impact extends far beyond fundraising. Surplus books continue to find new homes in schools and community groups, helping promote literacy and a love of reading throughout our community.
A special thank you goes to our local Scout Group for providing the Scout Hall free of charge. In recognition of their support, Rotary donates 10% of Book Fair proceeds, and this year that contribution will be approximately $1,000. The funds will help support young people attending the upcoming Scout Jamboree and contribute to equipment and facility improvements that will benefit the wider community for years to come.
Twenty years on, the Book Fair remains a wonderful example of what can be achieved when a community comes together in the spirit of service.
Pride in work Awards 2026
The Pride in Work Awards on 6 October 2026 are one of Rotary's most prestigious and inspiring events, celebrating people who consistently go above and beyond in their workplace and make a real difference to their colleagues, customers, and community.
These awards recognise individuals who demonstrate dedication, professionalism, pride, and commitment in everything they do. They are the quiet achievers, the team players, and those who set an example for others through their work ethic and positive attitude.
Volunteers Needed for Daffodil Day
Could you spare an hour or two to help make a difference?
Our friends from the Cancer Society is seeking volunteers to assist with this year's Daffodil Day collection next month. Collection points will be located around Tawa, including Woolworths, New World, the Lotto Shop, and the Book Shop.
A number of collection slots are still available on both Friday 28 and Saturday 29 August, with flexible times and locations to suit volunteers.
Daffodil Day is one of the Cancer Society's most important fundraising events, helping provide vital support, information, and services to New Zealanders affected by cancer.
If you can lend a hand, even for just an hour, your support would be greatly appreciated.
Murder, mayhem, mistaken identities... and a dead body hidden in plain sight!
What could possibly go wrong when two hopeless burglars, a priceless painting, an eccentric aristocratic family, and one very inconvenient murder are thrown together in an English country manor?
The answer: absolutely everything.
This August, New Players Theatre Company proudly presents the world premiere of Murder and Matters More Pressing, a brand-new comedy-mystery by Amelia Lucie-Smith, directed by Martin Hunt.
Set in the delightfully chaotic Fardelbear Manor, the story begins when two bungling thieves attempt to steal a priceless painting. Unfortunately, their carefully planned heist takes an unexpected turn when they accidentally kill the lord of the manor. With a party about to begin in the very room where they've hidden both the painting and the body, their solution is simple: lie their way out of trouble.
Naturally, that only makes things worse.
We have 10 tickets available! Please message Elizabeth or me if you are interested.
Have your questions answered by the people seeking to represent Kenepuru.
Join us for a community election forum on Tuesday, 13 October at 6.00 pm at the Tawa Bowling Club.
As Kenepuru is a brand-new electorate, this is a unique opportunity to hear directly from candidates about their vision, priorities, and plans for our community.
The evening will be moderated and will feature questions submitted in advance by community leaders, as well as questions from the audience on the night.
Whether you're passionate about local issues, curious about the future of the electorate, or simply want to make an informed decision before voting, this promises to be an insightful and engaging event.
We're also looking for a moderator and someone to livestream the event.
If you have experience in either role, or know someone who would be a great fit, we'd love to hear from you. This is a fantastic opportunity to help make an important community event accessible, engaging, and successful.
Please get in touch if you can help or can recommend someone who can. We look forward to hearing from you!
Celebrating Phil's 100th Birthday!
Some milestones deserve a special celebration, and turning 100 years old is certainly one of them.
While Phil's 100th birthday falls in December, his family has invited us to celebrate this remarkable occasion a little earlier, on Friday 9 October, when family and friends will gather to honour a century of memories, achievements, and friendships.
Phil has been a valued member of our Rotary family, and this will be a wonderful opportunity to come together and recognise a truly extraordinary life.
His daughter, Lyn, is currently arranging a venue in Masterton and will advise us of the location and timing shortly.
If you would like to join us in celebrating Phil's incredible milestone, please email Pat: pat.waite@outlook.com
August is membership month in Rotary.
We’re starting a series where we introduce you to some of our members: Here’s one.
Michael Nestmann grew up in rural Germany and left school at 15 to work as a lumberjack before pursuing a career in healthcare. After working as a paramedic and then training as a nurse, he moved to New Zealand in 2010. Since then, he has held leadership roles in aged care, completed a Postgraduate Degree in Health Science at Victoria University of Wellington, and joined Health New Zealand in 2021.
Michael, his wife Caron, originally from South Africa, and their four children moved to Tawa in 2023. He joined Rotary in 2024. Michael is the current President and is looking to welcome new people, increasing the clubs diversity and make every club meeting a real fun event.
Specialist Hub
Connecting you with Rotary experts in your area.
The specialist hub is an online platform connecting Rotary members and clubs with regional experts and volunteers who specialize in areas like membership, public image, service projects, and grants. For the South Pacific region (Zone 8, which includes New Zealand), members can access the directory via the Rotary South Pacific Specialist Hub.
The Rotary Foundation helps Rotary members advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace by improving health, supporting quality education, protecting the environment, and helping communities overcome poverty. Every project is funded through the generosity of Rotary members and friends of the Foundation who share a vision of a better world.
What is truly remarkable is the impact that small donations can have when combined with the contributions of Rotarians around the globe. Year after year, these gifts fund life-changing projects, from providing clean water and fighting disease to supporting education, growing local economies, and responding to disasters. Together, Rotary members turn modest individual contributions into lasting change for communities worldwide.
Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking presentation from David on Rotary's impactful Lifting the Lid on Youth Mental Health initiative.
Launched by Rotary in New Zealand in 2019, Lifting the Lid helps schools and kura access urgent funding for young people who need specialist mental health support. By providing fast access to services that may otherwise be delayed by long waitlists, the programme is making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable rangatahi and their whānau.
David will share how this grassroots Rotary project is transforming lives across the
Whether you're passionate about mental health, interested in community service, or simply want to hear about a project that is delivering real results, this is a meeting you won't want to miss.
Visitors and guests are warmly welcome. Come along, be inspired, and discover how Rotary is helping lift the lid on youth mental health.
If you would like to join one of our club meetings, please let Michaelknow, email: tawarotaryclub@gmail.comor speak to one of our members. We would be delighted to welcome you.
Guest Speaker: Dr Gary Lawrence 25 August - Rotary Volunteer Dental Aid Programme
Join us for a fascinating presentation on one of Rotary's most hands-on international service projects, the Rotary Volunteer Dental Aid Programme.
This remarkable initiative sees teams of volunteer dentists, dental assistants, and support personnel travel to remote communities across the Pacific, bringing free dental care, oral health education, and essential equipment to people who might otherwise have little or no access to dental services.
From treating painful dental conditions and providing preventative care for school children, to establishing portable dental clinics and supporting local health infrastructure, the programme is changing lives one smile at a time.
Visitors and guests are warmly welcome. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how Rotary is helping bring brighter smiles and healthier futures to communities across the Pacific.
If you would like to join one of our club meetings, please let Michaelknow, email: tawarotaryclub@gmail.comor speak to one of our members. We would be delighted to welcome you.
The following are dates for tree planning work bees that Conservation Tawa (aka Friends of Tawa Bush Reserves) have scheduled
Sunday 9th August working-bee from 1pm, Forest of Tawa - meridian road
Tuesday 25th August working-bee from 1pm, Forest of Tawa - meridian road
Sunday 13th September working-bee from 1pm, Woodburn Reserve lower stream riparian
Tuesday 22th September working-bee from 1pm, Woodburn Reserve lower stream riparian
Richard Herbert is our conservation champion. If you interested in joining, please contact Richard: herbert.r@xtra.co.nz
