Term 3: Playcentre Winter Sessions
Tēnā rawa atu koutou e Te Whānau Tupu Ngātahi.
As Hine Takurua makes her presence felt in these winter months, Term 3 can be challenging at centre, with the chill and damp making it harder for many whānau to stay well and warm. It’s always a bit of a balancing act, taking the time at home to fully recover, while also avoiding feeling cooped up, and looking forward to getting back to the play and social connections on session. As well, with Playcentre Open Week this month, there’s even more mahi than usual, making sure new whānau receive the warm Playcentre welcome and play filled experience we are famous for. E mihi nui ana, we acknowledge and thank all our whānau for the extra mahi that has kept our centres running smoothly through these chilly months, rain or shine.
Whakatau for Interim Chief Executive
Heather, Nat-Rose, and Ruth were privileged to attend the whakatau to formally welcome Nepia Winiata, Interim Chief Executive to Playcentre last month. Joining us were several staff from Te Wananga o Aotearoa, where Nepia had previously served as Chief Executive – a special honour to have them attend. He mihi nui, our thanks to all the staff at the National Service Centre for the manaakitanga extended to us all. In his first month, Nepia has made an impressive start, thoroughly reviewing all aspects of operations and engaging openly with staff and the Board. His collaborative approach and steady leadership have already made an impact as we navigate the months ahead.
Central Waikato Hapori Event
Alice and her tamariki attended a Central Waikato Hapori event in Rototuna, which had a fantastic turnout from our Playcentre whānau. The tamariki loved exploring the soft play obstacle course, while parents enjoyed the chance to connect and strengthen relationships. Hapori gatherings are important spaces beyond our own Centre, to meet other Playcentre whānau, share in kōrero about all things Playcentre and time with whānau who share similar values and experiences.
Mount Maunganui Playcentre Fundraiser
Andrea attended the Donate to Dine fundraiser in Tauranga for Mt Maunganui Playcentre. It was a wonderful evening at Sugo, organised by the Mt Maunganui Playcentre community, with funds raised for the Centre’s outdoor play area. Having attended Mt Maunganui Playcentre herself as a tamaiti, Andrea has a deep connection to the centre’s journey, following its rebuild and reopening with pride and aroha. After 20 years of planning, the centre finally reopened its doors in February, making this event an extra-special celebration.
Trustee Board Elections 2025
The first stage of the 2025 Trustee Election Process is now complete, and candidate names have been passed to the Returning Officer. In September, voting papers and candidate outlines will be emailed to the whānau member recorded as the primary caregiver at enrolment. This year, there are two trustee positions for Te Whare Tikanga Māori and two for Tangata Tiriti. We encourage every whānau to take part. Voting plays a vital role in shaping the future of our organisation, and your participation helps ensure strong, representative leadership.
Nā mātou noa nā,
Alice, Andrea, Bes, Fran, Heather, Nat-Rose, Peta mātou ko Ruth.