CE Update 2026
By Holly Snape
As we move into the Matariki season, we are reminded of the opportunity this time of year provides to pause, reflect on what has been, celebrate where we are now, and look ahead to what is yet to come. These themes are very much alive at Community Waikato at the moment.
I am particularly looking forward to a shared Matariki lunch with our co-located organisations at the Settlement Centre. Since moving into the building last year, we have enjoyed being part of a diverse community of organisations and people working to support Waikato communities. This gathering is an opportunity to celebrate that diversity, strengthen relationships, and create new connections. Matariki reminds us of the importance of coming together, sharing stories, and acknowledging the people who enrich our communities and our work.
Our team will also be spending time together at Maungatautari, Sanctuary Mountain. The visit will provide an opportunity for learning, reflection and wellbeing as we explore the rich environmental, cultural and historical significance of this special place. In the busyness of our work, it is important to create space to reconnect as a team, and Matariki offers a timely reminder of the value of reflection, renewal and investing in our collective wellbeing.
Matariki is also a time for looking to the future, which aligns well with another important piece of work underway at Community Waikato. We are currently refreshing our strategic plan, taking the opportunity to reflect on our purpose, our role, and how we can best support communities across the Waikato in the years ahead. The process has involved listening, learning and thinking carefully about where we can have the greatest impact. We look forward to sharing more as this work progresses.
Finally, I am pleased to welcome two new members to the Community Waikato Board. Endine Dixon-Harris, Tai Raro Takiwaa Māori Ward Councillor for Waikato District Council, and Liam Mylchreest, Audit Manager at PKF, have recently joined the Board. They bring valuable skills, perspectives and experience, and we are delighted to have them contribute to Community Waikato's governance and future direction.
As we celebrate Matariki, I hope you too are able to find time for reflection, connection and renewal. Thank you for all that you do to strengthen our communities.
