Rotary Whakatane
The Rotary Club of Whakatane
The Whakatane Rotary Club was founded on 27th June 1947.
The 2018/2019 Rotary year was a momentous year for the club. The Whakatane and Whakatane West Rotary Clubs joined forces to form the new Whakatane Rotary Club, giving us the benefit of the best from both organisations.
Our longest-serving member joined Rotary in September 1954.
When we are not busy with Rotary activities, club members have opportunities to enjoy various social and recreational activities, Sunday morning bicycle rides, potluck dinners, weekends away in Waihau Bay or Te Kaha, enjoying the fun of a car rally or just a weekend walk in the beautiful Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Youth, as with most Rotary Clubs, is one of our priorities. We support Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, International Youth Exchange, Summer Science School, Georgia Scholarship, the Dictionary Project and many local Youth activities.
We are committed to looking after our environment. A group of dedicated Rotarians coordinate the construction of pest traps which are sold to environmental organisations, and the continuing care of Kiwi in our area are priorities
The club recently undertook a project in partnership with the Whakatane District Council to build a shared walkway along the Ohope section of the Ohiwa Harbour. Over $200,000 was raised through grants and fundraising.
The intent was the construction of an asset that will improve community fitness, control pests, environmental enhancement and provide access to a previously inaccessible section of the harbour surrounds. A care group has been formed.
Some of the main fundraising activities undertaken include:
A spud growing competition that ends with a fun night with all Rotary Clubs in the Eastern Bay of Plenty participating.
An annual Trolley Derby in conjunction with Blue Light and the Menz Shed.
Gate duties at the annual Boxing day motocross.
An annual golf tournament.
We do not forget our Rotary duties to Rotary International. Our members are dedicated to Foundation and Polio Plus giving. ShelterBox, Emergency Boxes and over the years have joined in with overseas projects in the Pacific.
If you would like to join us for a meeting or become a member, be assured you will have fun, fellowship, get involved in your community and most of all are proud to be a Rotarian