Stories

2025 is here! The good times continue

2025 has started with a huge number of exciting events put on by clubs throughout the District. Whether a sunny day out at a Sandacstle competition or Beach Big Dig or a soggy byut suitably challenging interclub car rally or just a social get together there was something for all members and their families to set the scene for another energetic, fun year in Rotary. Most clubs are about to start their first 2025 meetings so if you are a member ... enjoy, and if you are yet to engage with your local Rotary club now is the perfect time to have a look at what they can offer you.

SUPER DELICIOUS Way to Raise Some Easy Funds

Rotary clubs throughout Aotearoa New Zealand, including many in our District, have sold Rotary Christmas Puddings as a profitable fundraiser for years with $2 million going back to our communities as a result. Yet others are missing out on an easy fundraiser. Worse, in areas where Rotary clubs are not participating, local businesses are paying retail price and ordering their cartons for corporate gifting, directly from the website so our local Rotary community is missing out.

And value … what amazing value these are. For example, these Rotary puddings at $17 to Rotary clubs are high-quality 750gm puddings with an RRP of $25 yet high-end retailers are selling similar quality, smaller 500gm puddings at $39.

They are an easy fundraiser where clubs get out and sell in their community (for instance, a pudding sale instead of a sausage sizzle) with a top example being a Waikato club that sells 400 … every single year.

So clubs already selling these will receive their 2024 information soon so they can get out and sell these, but for those yet to take on this opportunity please look at the Flyer HERE (includes recipes to extend the usefulness of the puddings) and also the special website www.rotarypuddings.co.nz

This is a super delicious way for Rotary clubs to help their community support Rotary.

The District 9910 Rotary contact is Norm Harvey M: 021 971 562 E: buzz.mg@outlook.com

Day of Action - Albany Lakes Cleanup

From the Facebook page of North Shore Rotary: It was great to have 6 of our Rotary Youth Exchange Students helping at our clean up day yesterday. Thank You Victoire, Ambre, William, Aline, Samuel and Ava.

The Stats from our day of action clean up at Albany Lakes Reserve, and surrounds are in! A great effort from everyone with 216 community service hours completed by 108 volunteers.

As you can see, we found a significant amount of waste, pulled cones and a trolley from the lake and located plenty of trolleys which we returned to New World Albany and have contacted PAK'nSAVE Albany to advise where we have located their 7.

Thank you again, @northshorenzrotary members, Tauhinu Sea Scout Group and Rangitoto College students for your hard work, keeping our community beautiful.

RYPEN is an untapped winner

The Rotary Youth Programme of Enrichment (RYPEN) is a hugely successful youth programme that more clubs should consider participating in.

Secondary students sponsored by Rotary clubs on the North Shore of Auckland and Rotary Bay of Islands took part in last weekend's Winter RYPEN 2024 for neighbouring Rotary Districts 9910 and 9920. Special thanks to Rotarian Ainie Kwok for her outstanding youth leadership, RYLArian (from 2022) Caitlin Lorigan for the RYPEN video, and the other volunteer young leaders who are keen to return to Rotary Youth programmes. The next RYPEN for our District is in August 2025, so it would be great to have more District 9910 clubs and schools participate!

Winter RYPEN was an amazing experience for all the students and volunteers, as illustrated by the following article about the exciting weekend by RYLArian (from 2018) Kevin Choi:

Cans for a Cause

Did you know that 1/5 New Zealanders are experiencing food poverty?

That’s why Rotarians across NZ are participating in our first ever NATIONAL campaign. Not only will we help feed hungry Kiwis but we will raise our profile of Rotary up and down the country.

The goal: To collect over 1 million cans or food items for local food banks next March 2025.

Now is the time to start thinking about how you will collect, local schools/businesses to be involved and where you will donate your cans/food items such as that local foodbank you already support. Also think about how you can publicise your club with a special campaign.

Dates: Friday 21st March - Sunday 30th March

Rotary Kaipātiki Book Fair

The Rotary Club of Kaipātiki recently held it’s annual book fair where they raised over $47,000. They donated over $17,000 to MS and the remainder will be used for their club projects.

It was absolutely buzzing with many commenting it’s the best book fair in Auckland. Massive congrats to Rotary Kaipātiki and the team for a very successful event!

Care Packs for North Shore Hospital

North Shore Rotary presented Well Foundation with 50 care packs when they made a recent visit to see the Healing Garden at Tōtara Haumaru, the new North Shore hospital building. These packs, designed to provide comfort and support, will be given to patients who may find themselves at the hospital unexpectedly and without any personal care items.

Thank you to @dalan_nz, @synergyhairnz, and @holistichair, who very generously donated items for these packs. This project would not have been possible without their support.

A new beginning - the Healing Garden

The Healing Garden envisioned by the Well Foundation at North Shore Hospital's Elective Surgery Centre Totara Haumaru was opened on 30 June 2024. It was a very fitting time, as Matariki is about new beginnings and this garden is the first of its kind in Australasia .

Thanks to the outstanding leadership of Past District Governor Peter Garnett, most Rotary clubs in District 9910 have contributed $100,000 towards this legacy project (which has a total value of more than $2 million).

This beautiful, peaceful, thoughtfully created space will be used by patients, visitors and staff, contributing significantly to better patient outcomes, faster healing and less anxiety for the people of the North Shore of Auckland plus regional referrals from further away. The Healing Garden will serve the community for generations to come ...

A time of Celebration

Across the breadth of District 9910 there have been many celebrations of the success that was the 2023-2024 Rotary year and here are two samples of this:

Rotary Orewa-Millwater's 60th Anniversary and Changeover celebration last night at Gulf Rise Retirement Village in Red Beach was outstanding! Including the extremely interesting history of the club and it's considerable achievements over 60 years shared by Past President Peter, then a wonderful address by District Governor Jenn, followed by a delicious mid-Winter Christmas dinner, along with lots of fellowship. So a very special night out.

Did you know that Rotary Orewa-Millwater's achievements included:

* During outgoing President Robbie's Rotary year, members completed 18 Rotary events, with $60,000 donated to the community via projects. Robbie is 26 years-old.

* Over seven years, their fantastic Greek Extravaganzas, led by Rotarian Theo, raised almost $138,000 for Harbour Hospice

DG Jenn - Monthly Message (July)

This month we kicked off the new Rotary year and it’s already been a whirlwind of exciting projects.

Over the last month the majority of our Clubs have had a changeover, congratulations and thank you to our Past Presidents. A massive welcome to our new Presidents and thank you for joining me as we create The Magic of Rotary this year! For those Clubs whose President is continuing, we thank you for all your hard work and dedication, we hope you had celebrations reflecting on your successes in 2023 - 2024 too.

Rotarians Helping with Flood and Cyclone Relief

New Zealand suffered catastrophic flooding in late January and early February 2023. This was followed by a severe tropical cyclone Gabrielle which caused unprecedented damage to many parts of the North Island.

Rotarians from District 9910 have been busy supporting their local communities with flood and cyclone relief activities.

Rotary ‘Tag You On – Tag Polio Off’ Campaign 2022

FRIDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2022

This is a super-fun event where Rotarians from across Auckland come together to raise the profile (and raise funds) for Rotary’s largest international project – to rid the world of Polio. We do this by travelling the entire train network across Auckland – as far West as Swanson and as far South as Pukekohe. We’re also including the ferry network with all the ferries terminals between Waiheke, Devonport and Half Moon Bay covered.

Mana Tangata Launch

Our stories over one hundred years of service in New Zealand and the Pacific. A look at where Rotary came from, how it developed and its future, captured in an easy-to-read and beautifully laid out book.

People. Passion, Sustainability

The District 9910 conference at Waitangi had all of that and more. Great venue, awesome camaraderie, informative speakers and input from those who couldn't be there in person. In our centenary year, we 'honoured the past' and 'built the future' with input from motivated and forward-thinking young adults.

I Am Woman

March 8 we mark International Women’s Day and it is now 32 years since Rotary International changed the constitution to enable women to join. District 9910 was the first in New Zealand to have a female Governor and now, despite only being 27% of our membership, a third of our district roles are filled by women.

Rotary Santo Go Back to School

Another successful Global Grant project was completed at Asanvari School, Moewa Island, Vanuatu recently. The project was funded by a Rotary Global Grant with the support management of SHaRM and the technical supervision of Cyrille Mainguy Company.

Can You Dig It?

Rotary Bay of Islands annual beach dig on Paihia Beach creates summer fun and memories for all

Resilient RYE Return

District 9910 had five students who all stayed overseas for their exchange year and are now back safe and sound. Thanks to COVID 19 the students all experienced life in their host countries in different ways than they could ever have predicted. We tell them it will be the experience of their lifetime - but this wasn't quite what we meant! This is the first time in 60 years the Rotary Youth Exchange programme has been halted. Hopefully, Jan 2022 will see an outbound group but at this stage, it’s one day at a time.
Sandra Woods, D9910 RYE Chair

Taming the Wild West

The Rotary clubs of New Lynn and Henderson and Rotalite West have transformed a wild and woolly pond area at Waitakere Hospital into a beautiful, workable, restful space for patients, visitors and all West Aucklanders to enjoy. In Rotary Henderson’s 60th year the club was determined, despite COVID-19 to deliver a large-sized project which would allow all members to participate in some hands-on work – whether it be chainsawing, hauling branches, mulching, planting, or organising morning teas and lunches for the hungry volunteers.

Rotary Workout

For an island surrounded by water, Rotary Nouméa Ouen Toro’s support for the children’s “Learn to Swim′′ programme is potentially life-saving.

Empty Attics to Fill the Coffers

One person's trash is another person's treasure and Rotary Nouméa Ducos Boulari are making the most of this maxim to good effect

I See Red, I See Red, I See Red

Tag You On, Tag Polio Off! A sea of red welcomed Auckland commuters on Friday 23 October as hundreds of Rotarians and friends took to Auckland trains and ferries in a campaign to raise awareness about ending polio.

Living Tribute to Local Orchid Grower

Following the unfortunate passing of a local orchid grower in Whangarei, NZ, SRotary Whangarei South fell into an unexpected fundraising opportunity that has brought in significant funds for the club.

Milford Beautification

Rotary Milford members were visible in high vis and high colour amongst the plants in the Milford Shopping area

Revered Northland kaumātua Wiremu Wiremu dies

An ''absolute icon'' of the north who mentored thousands of young Ngāpuhi and one of Northland's most respected and recognisable kaumātua, Wiremu Wiremu, died suddenly on Thursday 14th May aged 80.

Mother's Day with Rotary

Mother's Day 2020: send an e-card to the mothers in your life and give a gift in their names to safeguard future Pacific mothers

Sunday 10 May 2020 is Mother’s Day in many countries including New Zealand, Australia and Canada.

With the COVID-19 lockdowns making it difficult to be with the special mothers in your life this year, whether that’s your own mother or the mothers of your children or grandchildren, Rotary Give Every Child A Future is delighted to give you the opportunity to send an e-card to let them know you’re thinking of them.

ROTARY CREATES NETWORK OF VOLUNTEERS TO HELP IN LOCKDOWN

When you’re a Rotary club with enthusiastic members, a ton of goodwill in the community and the skills and ability to help address the needs of the needy, then Covid-19 Alert Level 4 complicates things. The biggest limitation is that it means that your members cannot do projects out in the community, not the least because any of the older age group especially need to stay strictly at home in their bubble. That need to isolate completely creates its own problems such as it they cannot go out, just how are they going to get food to feed themselves or prescriptions to stay healthy? A dilemma.

CYCLONE HAROLD AFTERMATH: Vanuatu needs your help now.

With COVID-19 impacting the world, it is important now more than ever for a locally-led emergency response in Vanuatu during the aftermath of Cyclone Harold.

COVID - 19 Announcement

Due to ongoing concerns and the unknown nature of the current outbreak of COVID -19 (Coronavirus) we have made the very difficult decision to cancel the District Conference in Vanuatu. Our thoughts are with all of those who have worked so hard to prepare for this conference, which will particularly have a direct impact on our fellow Rotarians in Vanuatu and especially the Port Vila club. Further information attached.

Rotarians who have registered for the conference will be contacted shortly by email with advice on the next steps.

Holger Knaack sees opportunities for Rotary to change, thrive

Incoming RI president announces 2020-21 presidential theme

Rotary International President-elect Holger Knaack is encouraging Rotarians to seize the many opportunities Rotary offers to enrich their lives and the communities they serve.

GOVERNOR PARTNER PROJECT UPDATE

End of November and December saw the completion of Club visits, with visits to Henderson Rotalite, Albany, Kumeu and Whangarei South Clubs.

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES TO ASSIST CLINIC UPGRADES IN MAEWO PLUS OTHER HOSPITALS THROUGHOUT VANUATU

During a recent visit to Maewo Island which followed the handing over of second successful project completed in July 2020 by Rotary International and SHaRM Foundation at Naone Primary School in North Maewo; the project team then spent a few days visiting other areas on Maewo Island seeking out potential projects for 2020.

IYE Students Return Home

Our Rotary Youth Exchange students have arrived home after their year away.

Toastmasters and Rotary partner to help members grow professionally and make a difference in their communities

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Jan. 7, 2020 — Members of Toastmasters and Rotary will enhance their skills, broaden their networks and increase their positive impact in communities through a new collaboration.

PDG Jessie Harman

PDG Jessie Harman Selected as Rotary International Director Zone 8

Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands

The Nominating Committee for RI Director in Zone 8 recently certified that it selected Rotarian Jessie H. Harman, a member of the Rotary Club of Wendouree Breakfast, as a RI director in 2021–23.

GLOBAL GRANT: WATER AND SANITATION PROJECT IN MAEWO COMMUNITY, VANUATU

Central to a District 9910-Rotary Foundation Global Grant Water and Catchment Sanitation Project was a new multipurpose building on Maewo Island, Vanuatu, that was handed over to the community at Naone Primary School in a colourful display of cultural dancers in 4 July 2019.

Introducing Ian & Jasmine Kiernan

Ian Kiernan

Born 1960 in Henderson, Auckland, Ian is the eldest of 4 children and has 2 brothers and 1 sister. His early childhood was spent in Kelston West Auckland, but the family moved around the city in subsequent years eventually settling in Mt Albert.

GOVERNOR PARTNER PROJECT

– from Jasmine Kiernan (2019/20 Governor Partner)

As I am not “working” during the 6 months or so that we have relocated from Norfolk Island to Auckland while doing our Club visits, I decided that I would like to spend my spare time doing a project that would raise funds for one of Rotary’s programs.

Rotary D9910 Youth Exchange - August 2019

RI President

Mark Daniel Maloney

President 2019-20

Rotary Club of Decatur

Alabama, USA

My dear friends, Rotary leaders, and Rotaract leaders:

A new Rotary year is upon us, and let us say one final thank you to former President Barry Rassin for his outstanding leadership. Barry, we will miss you, but we know and appreciate that you will continue to lead Rotary in important ways for years to come.

Skyjump for Curekids

When I first agreed to accept the District Governor role, I was told I would scale new heights in Rotary. I did not realise that meant the Auckland Sky Tower and that I would have to jump off it. I am pleased to report “Mission Accomplished” and I survived so you will have to continue to put up with me for the rest of the Rotary year.

New Governor Ian and Jasmine welcomed at District Changeover

District 9910’s Changeover was held on the afternoon of Sunday 30^th June 2019 at Point Chevalier Bowling Club, with great turnout of around 100 attendees...

Rotary District 9910 Conference 2019 - 12th to 14th April on the North Shore

District Governor Jerry Norman and Fay plus his team from North Harbour Rotary Club are proud to invite you to their District Conference held on the weekend of Friday 12th to Sunday 14th of April. This year's venue is the Barfoot and Thompson Netball Centre on the North Shore in Auckland.

Rotary National Science and Technology Forum 2019

This year marked the 30th anniversary for one of Rotary's best New Zealand programmes - supported by clubs from all six Rotary Districts across the country.

Governor Jerry and Fay visit Vanuatu

This month Governor Jerry and his wife were in Vanuatu. Jerry and Fay visited Rotary projects, like water tank projects which included water to kindergartens.

They visited Coolridge Kindergarten where Fay presented some reading resources. Principal Rosina has 135 students aged 3 to 5. They were welcomed with two songs and beaming smiles. They appreciated the learning resources.

Jerry Norman becomes District 9910 Governor for 2018-2019

Governor Jerry Norman took office as the Governor of Rotary District 9910 on Sunday July 1 at the District Changeover at Milford Primary School.

Governor Jerry was born in the Far North and was educated at Ngataki Primary School, Te Kao High and Kaitaia College. He went on to become a primary school teacher and continued to work in the education sector until his retirement from the Ministry of Education at the end of June this year.

New Wheels A Game Changer

Max Wymer needs The Beast to help change his life.

The Target Road Primary School student uses a Ministry of Health-funded wheelchair suitable for indoor use but struggles to even tackle the ramp leading to his house. Max, 11, has his heart set on a 4x4 all-terrain wheelchair, known as The Beast.

Welcome to Rotary District 9910

Are you someone who wants to make positive changes in your community and the world? Our club members are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group who share your drive to give back. There are 41 clubs in our Rotary District, which extends from the northern and western areas of Auckland to the whole of Northland and on up into the Pacific. In Rotary we serve these communities where we live and work.
As well as Rotary clubs we look to the future with two Rotoract Clubs in the Auckland area.

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