Join in the Christmas spirit with Volunteering Northland

Written by Janine Duncan

The Gift Wrapping Station and Community Pop Up is back! Following last year’s resounding success, and thanks to the support of Whangārei District Council and NorthChamber, Volunteering Northland are bringing festive joy and community spirit to the Whangarei CBD.

A group of friendly community volunteers will be providing a free gift wrapping service on the 12th -14th and 19th-21st of December from 11am to 3pm in the Cameron Street Mall. This year, there is an even stronger emphasis on using eco-friendly sustainable gift wrapping materials. Visitors can choose between classic paper wrapping, Christmas bags sewn from high quality recycled fabrics and other recycled wrapping options – all free of charge.

Dance and music performances will take to the stage each day from 12-1 pm, highlighting the diverse array of amazing talent in our community. Acts featured include NUR Belly Dancing, Circus Kumarani and Sistema Youth Music, as well as up and coming youth band Rangawhā and youth musicians and singers Alofau (Anabelle Tuato'o) feat. Louie. On the 21st of December, the public are in for a special treat, with Christmas Carols performed by the Whangārei Harmony Choir.

In the lead up, young people aged 14-24 years have the opportunity to join an eco-friendly gift wrapping workshop on the 10th of December from 3.30 to 5.30 pm. Organised by Volunteering Northland’s Youth Action Group, this is a great way to have fun alongside your peers and learn a new skill that contributes to environmental sustainability!
Finally, community organisations are most welcome to join us and host a stall for a day; a fantastic opportunity to build connections and promote your cause!

If you are in Whangarei’s CBD, come and visit us, join in the community spirit, and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the festive season.

For any further enquiries, please contact Verena on verena@volunteeringnorthland.nz or 022 096 6102.