Saturday’s Sirens and Services Koha Ice Cream Day in Gate Pā turned out to be a sunny celebration of community spirit, despite a rainy forecast the day before.

Held at Anzac Park, the event brought together families, local services, and performers for a fun-filled day under sunny skies.

Organised by Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support and the Haeata Charitable Trust, the event featured a variety of activities, thanks to the support of local businesses and emergency services.

The Mainfreight stage. Photo/ Stephen Fawcett.

Mainfreight provided a massive truck that served as the stage, while Kiwi Meats grilled up sausages for a fundraising sizzle.

Eight local community groups set up stalls around the park, including Haeata Charitable Trust, Neighbourhood Support, Fire and Emergency NZ, Tauranga City Council, Bay Financial Advisors, Kids Campus Childcare, Merivale Community, and the SPCA.

Children had a blast collecting stamps at each stall, earning a free ice cream from Mr Whippy after filling their cards, courtesy of a generous donation from Tauranga Mayor Mahē Drysdale.

Community came together for a fun-filled time at the Gate Pā Sirens and Services Koha Ice Cream Day. Photo/Stephen Fawcett.

Live performances kept the energy high throughout the day, with local singers Emasarina and Teisha taking the stage.

The event also encouraged budding talent, with several kids jumping on the microphone for impromptu open mic performances. At noon, Clutsy the Clown provided some extra laughs for the crowd.

Rebecca Larsen, event coordinator for Neighbourhood Support, said one of the highlights was seeing young people engage with the event.

“It was so heartwarming to see kids confidently take the stage and show off their talents,” she said.

Teisha Patene from Haeata Charitable Trust echoed Larsen’s sentiments, adding that the youth’s involvement brought the event to life.

“It’s such a great way to bring the community together,” she said.

Community came together for a fun-filled time at the Gate Pā Sirens and Services Koha Ice Cream Day. Photo/Stephen Fawcett.

Fire and Emergency NZ and local businesses including New World Gate Pā, Gate Pā Green Grocer, Luxe Cinema, and Pak’nSave helped make the day possible, donating spot prizes and other support.

Attendees also got a sneak peek of the upcoming community hub being built next to the park, with Tauranga City Council representatives on hand to discuss the project. Councillors Rod Taylor and Marten Roseboom, along with local MP Jan Tinetti, expressed excitement for the new community centre, which will be a key addition to the neighbourhood.

Community came together for a fun-filled time at the Gate Pā Sirens and Services Koha Ice Cream Day. Photo/Stephen Fawcett.

Neighbourhood Support wants to connect with those aged 65 and over in the community, with plans to create a special group. Anyone interested can get in touch with area coordinator Nga Utunga at nstauranga@wbopns.org.nz. The goal is to eventually use the new community centre.

In addition to the fun activities, the event raised funds to support Haeata Charitable Trust’s Activate Programme. All proceeds from the sausage sizzle and donations went directly to supporting the Trust’s important work in the community.

Community came together for a fun-filled time at the Gate Pā Sirens and Services Koha Ice Cream Day. Photo/Stephen Fawcett.

Larsen was thrilled with the event’s success, saying the day couldn’t have gone better.

“The community came out, brought their kids, and really connected with the local services. It was a chance to learn about everything our community has to offer, and the atmosphere was just fantastic,” she said.

“The event was a real testament to the power of community – people coming together, making it happen, and having a blast.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who helped make this happen. We can’t wait for the next one!” she added.

For photos of the event, visit Neighbourhood Support Tauranga’s Facebook page.