Tauranga Women's Hui
Bay of Plenty Ethnic Women’s Hui: Listening, Connecting, and Co-Creating Solutions
In May 2024, over 30 women came together at the Arataki Community Centre in Tauranga for the Bay of Plenty Ethnic Women’s Hui—an inspiring afternoon of sharing, connection, and collective visioning. Organised by Shama in collaboration with Multicultural Tauranga, Tauranga City Council – Welcoming Communities Coordinator, Bay Venues and Tautoko Mai, the hui created a space for ethnic women to reflect on their experiences and explore the strengths, challenges, and aspirations shaping their lives in the Bay of Plenty.
A Stronger, More Connected Community
Women highlighted how existing support networks—like Multicultural Tauranga, Shakti, English Language Partners, and cultural groups—play an important role in helping them feel safe and supported. But they also identified clear needs: more accessible transport, mental health support, better information about services, language support, and culturally safe places to connect.
Themes That Emerged
From practical workshops on small business and driving to safe spaces for friendship, parenting, and creativity, the hui surfaced a wealth of ideas. Health, financial independence, social connection, and opportunities to share culture and expression were all discussed as areas needing further investment. Most of all, women expressed a strong desire for reliable information, a welcoming place to go, and more opportunities to belong.
What’s Next?
The insights from this hui are helping guide the development of services tailored to ethnic women in the region. We are deeply grateful to all who participated and shared their voices so openly. Watch this space for updates as we turn these conversations into action.
