Our church members are deeply involved in the community in various aspects, reflecting our commitment to service and collaboration. Jessica Ruru and her husband Matatua Ruru are exemplary members, actively participating in both our church and the Te Karaka community.

The recent video, produced by Analese Ruru and Mikaere Pari—both leaders at Meeting Place and part of the community group Tu Ake Te Karaka, as well as the Volunteer Fire Brigades of Te Karaka and Whatatutu— as are both of their husbands Antony Ruru and Geoff Pari - highlights this engagement.

Ps. Frank of Meeting Place Tairawhiti, who serves as Chair of Tu Ake Te Karaka, stood up and took on the role as Controller of Waikohu Civil Defence before Cyclone Gabrielle (not even dreaming that there would be such a weather event). Ps. Monz, joined the efforts the day before the cyclone's impact. Our fellowship rallied to assist the community during this challenging time, and we are immensely grateful for the support from the wider communities across New Zealand.  So many members of our community stood up and not only mucked in but could be counted on during this time, to put their hands to the plow, so to speak, for the good of our hapori.

We are proud of how we can came together as one in Te Karaka, working collaboratively to make a positive impact and strengthen our collective life. This unity and commitment to service exemplifies our mission to benefit and support our entire community.

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The last video was a community Horse Sports which was organised by Mat and Jess Ruru to help our hapori come together on the otherside of tragedy and loss, for a day of fun, unity and community.