Rowley House open

After 11 years of operating from one of the McCarthy Street shops, Rowley Resource Centre (now known as Rowley Community House) has moved to larger, brighter and newer premises at 59 Rowley Avenue.

The new centre has five rooms, allowing various activities to be held at the same time, and a large welcoming kitchen/lounge where there is an endless supply of tea and coffee.

The community workers are looking to increase the number of courses run for the community, as well as planning a community garden. Rowley Community House staff identify community needs, ideas and goals, and help to find ways to meet them, working alongside individuals, schools and other organisations in the local area, with the support of local and central government bodies. Visitors include WINZ, Housing New Zealand and health professionals.

The official opening of the house took place early last month. The Kapa Haka group from Rowley Avenue Primary School performed for about 80 people who had braved the cold weather to be there.

They were welcomed in Maori, Tongan and Samoan.

After the official part of the day was over, everyone was treated to lunch, which was provided by the local community.

The children were kept entertained with a bouncy castle, roving entertainer, flax weaving, card and gift-box making and face painting.