Viewpoint – Moments of connection

Like many local parents, I’ve been feeling the effects of winter starting to settle in and there comes a time when everyone needs a change of scenery. The kids need somewhere to burn off energy, and I need a conversation that isn’t about snacks, screen time, or who’s sitting in whose spot on the couch. We packed up and headed to the free parkour course set up in the Ōrewa Community Centre. That’s when I was reminded just how valuable our free Out and About Auckland Activations that the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board fund through our work programme are.

These activations are about much more than entertainment. They help tackle social isolation, encourage physical activity, support mental wellbeing, and foster a sense of belonging. For children, they offer opportunities to play, learn, and build confidence, while for adults and seniors, they create valuable social connections and reasons to stay active and engaged.

For me, one of the most rewarding parts of local government is seeing people come together. Whether it is families enjoying a morning activity, older residents meeting new friends, or children trying something different, these moments of connection help build stronger communities.

At a time when many households are feeling the pressure of rising living costs, free activities are more important than ever. They provide opportunities for people to get out and about without worrying about the cost, and they create spaces where everyone is welcome, regardless of age, background, or income.

The beauty of local activations is that they happen right where we live. They transform our parks, community centres, beaches, and public spaces into places where friendships are formed and communities grow stronger. They remind us that some of the most meaningful experiences do not have to come with a price tag.

I firmly believe that strong communities are built through participation. They are built when people feel connected to their neighbourhood, know the people around them, and have opportunities to engage in community life. Every time a family attends a free event, a child joins a programme, or neighbours meet for the first time, we are investing in the social fabric of our community.

I am proud to support these initiatives. They represent a practical investment in community wellbeing and demonstrate the value of local decision-making. When we fund free community activations, we are not simply funding events. We are investing in healthier, happier, and more connected neighbourhoods.

As a parent, a resident, a local board member, and a teacher, I know firsthand the value of having welcoming spaces where people can gather, connect and simply enjoy being part of a community. Long may we continue to invest in the things that bring people together. Because a thriving community is not measured only by its infrastructure. It is measured by the strength of the connections between the people who call it home. I will see you at the K-Pop Dance session in July – I’ll be the one quietly relieved to find another adult to chat with.