For nearly 100 years, Massey Birdwood Settlers Association has advocated for the neighbourhood's betterment. Central to that is the popular community hall, which hosts several groups offering various cultural, sporting and craft activities. And now, thanks in part to the Your West Support Fund, the association is shouting from the rooftops with vibrant signage showcasing all the great things inside the hall.
The association was established in 1925, making it one of Auckland’s first resident and ratepayers associations. Among the founding fathers were Luckens and Spargo, who also gave their names to streets in the area. Membership is open to anyone who lives in the local area and costs just $1 per year.
According to the secretary, John Riddell, the association aims to improve the Massey and Birdwood areas economically and socially. Among its many achievements over the years are improvements in bus services and advocating for more council resources.
Massey Birdwood Settlers Association also owns and runs the community hall on the corner of Don Buck and Red Hills Roads. The central location puts it at the heart of the busy community in more ways than one.
‘A wide variety of community groups operate from the hall,’ says John. These include three churches, Waitakere City Cake Decorators Club, Red Hills Community Kindergarten, Zumba dance classes, two martial arts clubs, and much more. John estimates several hundred locals come through the doors weekly to participate in these community activities.
Initially built in 1956, the community hall has been extended over the years and is also available for hire. ‘It’s recently been refurbished and offers comfortable, modern facilities, including Wi-Fi and a smart TV,’ explains John.
Spreading the word about all the community hall offers is a priority for the association. The organisation approached the Your West Support Fund for help, and $5,000 has gone towards new signage for the hall.
The eye-catching displays highlight some of the many groups and activities available within the hall. There’s also a changing electronic sign advertising what’s on today. The new signage is hard to miss and helps to raise the profile of the association and the community hall.
Massey Birdwood Settlers Association is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025. Plans are already underway to mark this significant milestone. One of the best things locals can do is get behind the association and check out the fantastic programmes on offer in the hall. You’ll find all the details on the association’s website.