Team effort to reap rewards for Rodney

A local development initiative called the Rodney Community Team has just launched with support from the Rodney Local Board.

It brings people and resources together to provide accessible activities across the district “aimed at strengthening community connections and resilience”.

Rodney Community Team’s Priscilla McClintock Ngawaka says the team is focused on revitalising Rodney’s community hubs and shared spaces so they are welcoming and vibrant for all to enjoy.

Planned outcomes include new programmes for leisure; learning and play for all ages; increased opportunities for arts, culture, heritage and events; improved community spaces; more local learning, training and skills development opportunities; and youth-focused activities like those created during the Rodney Youth Project 2024/25 pilot (MM, Sep 22). The team comprises community facilitators who are based throughout Rodney, as well as a play, rec and youth coordinator and a placemaking specialist.

Community facilitators Lou Perkins and Jess Brown are covering Rodney East – both live in the district bringing local knowledge and connections to their roles. Perkins said she was proud to be a community facilitator for Mahurangi East to Leigh.

“I am a passionate musician and mother to two young children. I am also very active in my local community group Kawau Action Group.”

She asked, “How do we create community? How do we foster connection between humans? What is it that brings people together? What makes a community feel cohesive and inclusive? How do we bring out the best in those around us?

“I’ve had these questions since I was young. My darling mother, who was taken from this world prematurely, was an expert connector and growing up at her side was an education. She just loved people, and was endlessly fascinated by them.

“I’m very proud of this whakapapa, this heritage of mine. And these questions continue to drive my quest to understand something that we all know matters deeply to the human experience – belonging.

“We’ve won the lottery of life living in Mahurangi, and I’m grateful to get to add my little bit. If you think about these questions, and have an idea you’d like to action, I’d love to chat.”

Brown is the community facilitator for Warkworth to Milldale and said she would be working to support stronger connections right across Rodney.

“I’m proud to call Warkworth home. It’s one of those places where community isn’t just something you talk about, it’s something you feel. Neighbours know each other, kids are safe riding their bikes and people genuinely show up when it matters.

“That sense of care is what makes this place special.

“Milldale, one of our newest and fast-growing areas, is a big focus, too. Supporting it to feel connected, resourced, and truly part of wider Rodney is key.

“Collaboration between neighbouring suburbs – sharing spaces, skills, and support – makes all the difference. If you’re part of a community group, or even just thinking about starting something, I’d love to connect. Let’s keep building the magic, locally.”