The North Piha community came together to celebrate a significant milestone in July when the new Te Pou lifeguard clubhouse was formally opened.
It was an emotional and joyous celebration for everyone involved as the new clubhouse has been ten years in the planning.
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson and Te Kawerau ā Maki Kaumatua Tyler Taua-Gordon did the honours in front of a packed audience. Alongside local board members were representatives from Auckland Council, Surf Lifesaving NZ, Surf Lifesaving Northern Region, club members and residents.
‘It was a very special day,’ declares Victoria Mulrennan United North Piha Lifeguard Service’s Director of Communication.
The name Te Pou, which means support or central pillar, was gifted by Te Kawerau ā Maki. It’s a fitting name for this new multi-function community building, which will provide much more than just a base for the lifeguard service.
Victoria says the building has a large kitchen and dining space, training room, first aid room, and even bunk beds to accommodate school groups or displaced locals in emergencies. A dedicated patrol room also houses the lifeguards’ radios and computers.
‘Te Pou is a community hub available for other groups and organisations,’ says Victoria. The local St John first response already has plans to run their training sessions at Te Pou.
While the building is fully operational, Victoria says it’s pretty much an empty shell. United North Piha is still fundraising to furnish the building and complete the internal fitout.
However, a five-year community sponsorship agreement with The Trusts has helped kickstart fundraising efforts. ‘The Trusts has been a fantastic supporter of United North Piha over the years, and this sponsorship is a significant contribution to the costs of fitting out the clubhouse,’ advises Victoria.
United North Piha Lifeguard Service and the local community are stoked with their new facility. However, more work needs to be done. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. Check out the website for more information.
