Happy New Year

Happy New Year to everyone working, living and spending time in Paihia, Waitangi and across the beautiful Bay of Islands. A new year always brings a sense of possibility. January is a time when our town feels alive; long summer days, busy beaches, familiar faces returning, and new ones discovering what makes this place so special. It’s also a reminder of how much care, effort and pride goes into maintaining the places we all enjoy. Focus Paihia exists because of community. People who quietly give their time, skills and energy to make our town welcoming, functional and beautiful. Over the summer months, that collective effort really comes into its own, and we’re grateful to everyone who helps keep Paihia at its best in ways both big and small.

As we step into 2026, there will be simple opportunities to lend a hand for those who are able. Preparations are already underway for the biggest occasion on our BOI calendar, namely Waitangi Day, and we're looking for a dozen local heroes to don a Focus Paihia fluoro vest (as modelled above by our superhero Custodians Simon and Lee) and support the mammoth efforts being made to keep Waitangi clean and welcoming on a very busy day. Whether you help at the marae, with parking, keeping an eye on the recycling collection areas, or as ambassadors, there's a role for you. No grand commitments, just practical help that makes a real difference. If you’d like to volunteer, please email info@focuspaihia.org.nz. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more details and opportunities to help as they come up.

I hope the start of this year brings you even just a moment to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of our surroundings. Here’s to a positive, connected and purposeful year ahead.

With Warm Regards,

Tricia Scott

Chair