Neighbours are there for one another

Awatea Tce residents Robert Franich and Vivien Cooper are looking forward to Neighbours Day. Photo/Stephen Parker

A Lynmore street hopes to extend the spirit of Neighbours Day by inviting the wider community to a potluck street party next weekend.

Each year hundreds of communities throughout New Zealand take part in Neighbours Day Aotearoa by throwing events such as barbecues, street parties, and garage sales - giving neighbours an opportunity to chat and build support networks.

Awatea Tce residents have held Neighbours Day events for the past three years but this year organisers want to teach others to get to know their neighbours.

Co-organiser Vivien Cooper, who runs Redwoods Bed and Breakfast, is inviting those from nearby Lynmore streets, and anyone who wants to get some know-how, to come along for a potluck picnic dinner on Saturday, March 29.

Mrs Cooper, who is also a Neighbourhood Support representative, said getting to know neighbours was important for helping communities to feel safe.

"We live here and we want security and peace."

In Awatea Tce, neighbours knew which cars belonged to residents and kept an eye on unfamiliar vehicles, she said.

"If we don't know the person in the car then we take note."

The purpose of this year's event was to "turn strangers into neighbours and streets into neighbourhoods", she said.

"I always say crime can't exist in a community that cares."

Two weeks ago Awatea Tce had its first burglary in the last couple of years, but nothing was taken as security staff and residents responded quickly, she said.

Next week's party is run on a bring-your-own basis, so party goers need to bring chairs, plates, utensils, and cups and of course a plate of food to share.

Register in advance by calling Mrs Cooper on (07) 345 4499 or 027 270 3594. The Awatea Tce Neighbours Day street party runs from 5pm to 10pm. See Editorial p8