The ribbon around Katikati’s newest community building has officially been cut.

The purpose-built space at 33 Middlebrook Drive has been constructed by Western Bay of Plenty District Council into a new home for the MenzShed Katikati, Katikati Community Patrol and Katikati Community Van.

Western Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer and Brownie Tukaki marked the occasion by cutting the ribbon during a special ceremony, celebrating the milestone with the new tenants and neighbours.

Council’s Operations Manager Kerrie Little is looking forward to the user groups moving in.

“This space is going to mean so much to our groups, who give so much back to our community," says Kerrie.

"The work they do to keep our Western Bay of Plenty whānau engaged, and in some cases, safe, cannot be understated and we’re really thrilled to be able to provide them with a home base to keep up their great work.”

The community trio were selected to occupy the new space following expressions of interest in 2021.

The new community space at Middlebrook Drive. Photo: Supplied.

Roger Stiles from MenzShed Katikati, which brings people together to work on practical tasks, is excited about what the future holds.

“There’s room for us to use all our equipment, and it enables us to do more for our community," says Roger.

"We’re looking forward to getting stuck in on projects, including public seating, information signs, pest trap boxes, and helping local schools.”

The Community Van and Community Patrol vehicles have been parked in the open, until now. 

“Thanks to this new facility, our assets will now have a greater level of protection, so we can keep using them for the benefit of the community, including trips to medical appointments,” says Paul Goldfinch from Katikati Community Van. 

The building is owned by Western Bay of Plenty District Council, and the community groups will be leasing it. The New Zealand Red Cross is also based on this site in a separate building, and this facility will not impact them. 

The project has been funded by a generous donation of $100,000 from community trust TECT, as well as insurance money from a shed that burnt down at 26 Middlebrook Drive.