Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is urgently looking for new board members, due to recent retirements.

Current Chair Kathy Webb says the voluntary positions are not demanding of time.

"We're looking for board members who are enthusiastic about their communities and keen to make a difference in their wider neighbourhood. We have 16,000 member families around the Western Bay, and are intending to get out into the community over summer to help people get to know each other."

Kathy says Neighbourhood Support works to make homes, streets, neighbourhoods and communities safer and more caring places.

"We have monthly Board meetings and occasional participation may be needed on working groups to organise events.

"This is a voluntary role but reasonable expenses are covered, such as local travel. You'll be working with like-minded people keen to make a difference in their communities.

"Prospective board members should be enthusiastic about developing strong communities and have strategic thinking skills, and some leadership experience, such as involvement in other community or social service groups is useful."

Good communication skills and being a team player is also important, Kathy says.

The Board is also looking to strengthen diversity to better represent Tauranga's diverse communities, and welcomes board members of all ethnicities.

Successful candidates will need to undergo a Police check, and applications close soon. Interested people should email Kathy Webb, info@wbopns.org.nz

Western Bay of Plenty's AGM will be held by Zoom (due to Covid restrictions) on October 26 at 7pm. The meeting will also be live streamed on Facebook and all members are welcome to join in.