Pride of NZ: Mother makes a connection

Gabby Allen wanted to do something for new mums in Napier. Photo / Paul Taylor

Facebook page prove popular way to keep Hawkes Bay parents of young kids informed

Gabby Allen

Community Spirit category: Bringing up the next generation with community spirit has gained Napier woman Gabby Allen a Pride of New Zealand nomination.

About a year ago Mrs Allen started the Facebook page Out and About with Kids in Hawkes Bay. As mother of 2-year-old Sam, it was created to help mums network online.

"It was a way for my coffee group and friends with children to get support and know what's going on in the area."

Mrs Allen said she was surprised how popular the site became. "Within five days there were 500 likes and I realised that there was a real need for it among mums. So it just grew from there."

The page now has more than 3,700 likes. Mrs Allen said it worked by people posting questions on the page and those following it giving answers. The page was her way to keep the community spirit strong in Hawkes Bay.

"It's bringing up the next generation with community spirit and I think that's a huge gift you can give your children. It just shows there is a need for this sort of online community in a day and age where some communities aren't so strong."

She said she was surprised and humbled to be nominated. "I guess I feel I'm doing my bit for the community. I didn't expect any nomination of any kind."