In the heart of Raglan with the heart of the people.
Raglan Community House: a place of haven for everyone to come and korero – no reason needed.
At the heart of the Whaaingaroa township, sits Raglan Community House, a place of haven and practical support for nearly 40 years. Volunteers have been the backbone of the organisation since the doors first opened in 1987.
Today it operates from a purpose-built whare, opened for the community, by the community. This organisation is available for people from all walks of life, something head of the house, Mike Rarere is keen to emphasize,
“Were trying to make it clear that we are not just for supporting the vulnerable … it is about being a place that people can come, hold hui, share information and keep connected with their community”.
mike rarere
Mike has made some changes since he started in 2016. A popular service, the op shop, has moved to the street front which sees the “vibrant Raglan community” coming and going throughout the day. A meeting room has moved around the back which assists with more sensitive matters.
The caring and connected vision of the house is clear with these changes, which Mike said brings more flow and security and “just made more sense.”
With a wide range of services available to the public through the website, there is a little bit of ‘something for everyone’ Aside from many fantastic services, RCH is also involved in collaborations with other local groups including Whaaingaroa Talent Factory. This is an annual event that encourages local youth to showcase their musical talent. This event has created a safe place for participants to receive positive feedback.
The RCH was run as an incorporated society for its first 33 years, but as time progressed Rarere said it became more difficult to run under the same guidelines, “A charitable trust is a more fitting model for the way we operate”. So, he and the wider team put in ‘the hard yards’ and this was accomplished in 2020.
The community house is a place that truly connects nga tangata, the people. The warm, welcoming atmosphere can be felt walking through the front door.
Make sure to pop in and have a cup of delicious cold kawakawa tea, have a korero. Bring an idea that can bring positive change. Everyone is welcome – in need, or not.
Feel free to contact the Raglan Community House through the website, or phone 07 825 8142 between the hours of 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday.
