The Kaipara Tamariki Collective was formed through “Play in the Park”, an idea to encourage more use of the local park by the community which was initially piloted at the Dargaville Sportsville opening.

“Because of the success the community asked for it to be a regular event” says Roxanne Kelly, Sport Northland Community Connector and member of the Collective. Kaipara Tamariki Collective consists of multiple community organisations ranging from not for profit organisations, businesses and individuals that all have the same passion to support the community.

“Play in the Park” is a local event held in Dargaville that encompasses Children’s Day, Tamariki Day and other similar events held in March and April each year. By joining together, the event is community led with each organisation sharing the load and therefor avoids duplicating resources by doing a similar event. Another overarching theme for all Kaipara Tamariki Collective events, whether they support or organise the day, is that it is free for participants. Each of the collective source their own funding to provide a particular part of the day.

The Kaipara Tamariki Collective is the epitome of collaboration as they work as one to deliver the best outcomes for the community. Cara Donaldson from Te Ha Oranga, also a member of the Collective explains “by forming relationships with other organisations in our community we are able to pool resources to provide opportunities to our Rangitahi and Tamariki that would not normally happen”.

The Collective have had a successful 12 months supporting four events in 2019 including Play in the Park, Te Kopuru Playground Opening, Winter Wonderland and Silver Fern Farms Whanau Community Day. Together these events have attracted over 2500 local residents over the year.

The Collective is now planning this year’s events and encourages more organisations to come on board with Dargaville Community Development the newest recruit. “It would be great to have more involved with the changing times ahead, more expertise is needed to meet different and new regulations” says Kelly.  

To get involved, contact Roxanne 0274771752 or email roxannek@sportnorth.co.nz