A milestone gathering celebrated four decades of collaboration, connection and community in Motueka last Wednesday.
More than 80 people gathered to reflect on 40 years of the Motueka Community and Whānau network and the relationships built across those decades.
Representatives from 40 organisations attended, including national agencies such as the Department of Internal Affairs and Ministry of Social Development, as well as local groups including Women's Support Motueka, Motueka Community House, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren and Tapawera Connect.
Some of the original members of the network's first meeting were also there.
Penny Molnar reflected on the network's history, explaining how it was originally established to form a committee that made funding decisions for the Community Organisation Grants Scheme (COGS). It has since evolved into a forum where community groups can share ideas and resources, support each other's mahi and work together to address local challenges.
Facilitator Renee Alleyne guided discussions that encouraged participants to celebrate the network's achievements and explore how it could continue supporting communities in the future.
Motueka Community House manager Jane Henderson says one of the highlights was recognising how strongly local organisations support one another, with the large turnout reflecting the value people place on those connections.
She says there was "so much passion and energy in the room", with attendees united by a commitment to strengthening their community.
Looking ahead, participants shared aspirations for greater community-led decision-making around funding, stronger youth involvement, ongoing collaboration between organisations and succession planning to ensure the network remains strong for future generations.
The event was held at Motueka's RSA, while the network's monthly meetings continue to be hosted at Motueka Community House.
