1863 days ago

More than 14000 free meals given to Otara community

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

Members of the Otara community have eaten more than 14000 free meals thanks to the Ōtara Kai Village project.

Residents, food banks, The Ministry of Social Development and Foundation North are backing the initiative which aims to help struggling families.

Swanie Nelson, local Board member and Ōtara Kai Village Founder, said Otara was one of the suburbs the most severely impacted by Covid-19.

"We had the highest wage subsidy requests and the highest requests for the emergency care packages."

The mainly volunteer group works with retailers and manufacturers to support locals impacted by COVID-19 and redistribute food that would otherwise go to waste.

Residents, community groups and students from colleges in the district prepare free meals during the week in a container donated by Panuku by the AT Otara Transit Centre.

A cafe along with a Maori and Pacific boutique are open to entrepreneurs wanting to start their own businesses and to community groups running fundraising ventures.

Image
More messages from your neighbours
4 days ago

Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!

Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?

Image
Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
  • 79.6% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
    79.6% Complete
  • 20.4% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
    20.4% Complete
780 votes
9 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’

If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.

Image
11 hours ago

Merry Christmas🎅✝️🫶💯

Clarance from Otara

Merry Christmas to you all my Neighborly Family, I wish you all a wonderful & safe Christmas Day today & to never forget the reason for the season people. Love from ya Neighborly Uso & my family to the whole Neighborly Community & a Happy Holidays to you all.

#2025🎄