Gift pack for new residents
18 November 2015
WELCOME PACK: New residents to Kawerau will receive a welcome pack full of useful information for new residents, including what to see and do in the area, and gifts.
STARTING this month, new residents buying homes in Kawerau will be given a welcome pack.
The brainchild of Kawerau resident Margaret Bradnock, the pack is full of useful information for new residents including gifts and things to see and do in the area.
Mrs Bradnock saw a similar pack in the Coromandel and thought that since so many new people were coming to Kawerau, they should develop one to help new residents settle in.
“We thought a pack would be a great way to help people learn about their new community and to meet others.
“We have been very fortunate that local businesses have sponsored inserts and donated the colourful bag as well,” she said.
The packs were pulled together by new residents Chris Parkes and Susie Fieldhouse, Sandra Haines from Kawerau District Council, and Helen Stewart from Kawerau Enterprise Agency.
Kawerau businesses and organisations provided brochures and information to include in the pack and the council some useful information sheets on “things you need to know” and a fridge magnet bearing convenient phone numbers.
The group received help from Kawerau New World, Kawerau Pharmacy, Tarawera Physiotherapy and Pharmacy, Fairy Dentures and The Little Shop.
Mrs Stewart said during the year to July 31, 2015, house sales increased. There were 46 during the first half of that financial year but 64 in the second six months.
Mrs Stewart said she was happy with a recent upturn in Kawerau’s population and house sales, and she was excited about Kawerau firmly being on the radar.
She said two of Kawerau’s attractive features were that it offered a sense of place and a sense of community.
“People are being pushed out of larger towns and cities because of prices, traffic and the fast-paced life.
“We can offer something different,” she said.
New residents were not just retirees. Younger professionals exploring home-based businesses were moving to Kawerau because of the business-friendly council.
“There are a tremendous number of resources in this town.”
The group will distribute packs to recent arrivals they know of. Anyone that did not receive one could contact KEA.
A morning tea for people new to town will be held at 10.30am on December 9 at the council chambers, where new residents can bring a plate and get to know each other and other Kawerau people.
“We are expecting about 30 people. The mayor is going to be there and it is a good chance for everyone to get to know each other,” Mrs Stewart said.
Source: Whakatane Beacon
Photo by: Kimberley Herewini