Greerton Village is entering 2025 with fresh vision and renewed energy, with the Greerton Business Association welcoming a new events manager and embarking on the recruitment of a Mainstreet manager.

Cameron Templer, the incoming chair of the association, is eager to collaborate with the refreshed board, helping drive Greerton’s reinvigoration with new businesses, a new outlook and capitalising on revitalising what Greerton does best.

“Our mission is to support local retailers while building stronger connections with the community and key stakeholders, including Tauranga City Council’s Safety and Engagement managers, schools and other organisations,” Templer said.

“We’re excited to introduce our new events manager, Lisa Rooney, to the team. Lisa will work closely with the incoming Mainstreet manager to further elevate Greerton’s offerings.”

Rooney, recognised as one of NZ’s top four emerging event professionals in 2023, brings a wealth of experience to the role. As the founder and owner of Blabla Events, she has curated everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale festivals. Her portfolio includes managing the Crystal Palace at the Tauranga Arts Festival, launching Tauranga’s first-ever Irish Festival and joining forces with local business associations, wineries and coffee brands to create memorable events and marketing campaigns.

“Now, Lisa is bringing her passion and expertise to Greerton, where she will work to create exciting, engaging events that showcase and support the local community,” Templer said. “Keep an eye out for our first ‘RetroFest’ coming in May.”

Rooney will be further collaborating with Greerton School to bring the Cherry Blossom Festival to life this September. She will also work closely with local organisations and retailers to develop a range of popular and new events.

“It’s an exciting time,” Templer said, “It’s a new era for Greerton.”