About YourPapakura.org

Connecting Our Community, Strengthening Our Future

The Papakura Community Network (PCN) is a hub for connection, collaboration, and community spirit. For nearly 40 years, we’ve brought together local service providers, organisations, and volunteers to share opportunities, exchange ideas, and strengthen support across South Auckland.

Our monthly meetings are more than just notices—they’re a chance to hear inspiring speakers, build partnerships, and celebrate the people who make Papakura thrive. With the support of dedicated volunteers and the Papakura Local Board, PCN continues to grow as a welcoming space where community voices are heard and valued.

Our Mission

To empower the Papakura community by providing a centralized platform that connects residents with local organizations, events, and resources – making our neighborhood stronger, more informed, and more engaged.

What We Do

YourPapakura.org serves as the digital heart of our community, offering:

  • Local Directory – Find trusted local organizations, services, and businesses all in one place. Our comprehensive directory helps you discover everything from community groups to essential services right in your neighborhood.
  • Events Calendar – Never miss what’s happening in Papakura. From community gatherings and local markets to workshops and cultural celebrations, our calendar keeps you connected to the pulse of our area.
  • Member Portal – Local organizations can easily manage their directory listings and submit events, ensuring our community stays up-to-date with the latest offerings and activities.

Who We Serve

Whether you’re a long-time resident, new to the area, or just visiting, YourPapakura.org is here for you. We’re proud to support:

  • Residents seeking local services and community connections
  • Organizations looking to reach and serve our community
  • Visitors wanting to explore what Papakura has to offer
  • Community groups aiming to increase participation and awareness

Join Our Growing Network

YourPapakura is more than a website – it’s a collaborative effort by local organizations working together to build a stronger, more connected Papakura. By pooling our resources and sharing information freely, we’re creating a community where everyone has access to the opportunities and support they need.

Get In Touch

Have a question, suggestion, or want to get your organization listed? We’d love to hear from you.

Email: [email protected]

A Story of Connection and Collaboration

For nearly 40 years, the Papakura Community Network (PCN) has been a trusted meeting place for service providers across South Auckland. What began as a simple forum to share community events and opportunities has grown into a vibrant hub of collaboration, learning, and support.

The Early Days In the 1980s, PCN gatherings were held at the Awhina Centre on Opaheke Road—a lively community services hub that hosted organisations such as the Papakura Budget Service. Later, the Papakura Citizens Advice Bureau supported the Network for three decades, welcoming members into their Chapel Street offices.

Growing Together By the 2010s, under the convenorship of Inga Nu’u, meetings attracted 30–35 attendees each month. These sessions were short and practical: notices were shared, connections made, and the meeting wrapped up within 45 minutes.

Evolving with Purpose About nine years ago, Auckland Council’s community activations team consulted with members about how to make the gatherings more effective. The feedback was clear—people wanted more than notices. They wanted inspiration, insight, and opportunities to learn. As a result, speakers were introduced, bringing fresh perspectives and sparking meaningful conversations.

Today’s Network PCN now thrives thanks to a dedicated steering group of volunteers who meet monthly to plan speakers, venues, and catering. Their work ensures that every meeting is not only informative but also a chance to connect and collaborate.

Impact and Support

The formalisation of PCN has opened doors to funding from the Papakura Local Board, supporting hospitality and enabling the launch of this very website. With this platform, the Network can share its story more widely and continue building bridges across the community.

  • Claire Schoeller and Kim Rush (MP’s Electorate Office) manage administration, agendas, and minutes.
  • Abi Bond and the Kootuitui team provide accounting, refreshments, and technical support.
  • Rosemary Nash and Sustainable Papakura supply reusable crockery and cutlery, keeping sustainability at the heart of the gatherings.