It was a big moment for Louise Boswell, manager Pakuranga Citizens Advice Bureau and her hard working team of volunteers who have been working on it for more than one and a half year.
The opening of the Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) Pakuranga –Eastern Manukau Inc new satellite service at the Pohutukawa Coast, had MP Andrew Bayly cut the ribbon along with Janice Bain who will be looking after CAB in Beachlands and Maraetai.
“This is another fine example of the community coming together to help one another. I want to acknowledge the persistence and tenacity of CAB volunteer Janice Bain and the CAB in general who have pursued the idea of opening a satellite service in Beachlands since Janice first came to see me seeking advice and support back in July 2018,” said Bayly, also thanking the Franklin Local Board for their support in making the library available.
CAB will operate every alternate Friday from 1-3pm at the Beachlands Library and the Maraetai Library.
“There is a lovely synergy as the Library also serves the community and it is nice to share the space with them,” said CABNZ Chief Executive officer Kerry Dalton who cut the cake at the event attended by Councillor Paul Young, Howick Local Board member Adele White, Franklin Local Board member Malcolm Bell, Deputy Chair of Franklin Board Andy Baker and community constable Adrian Fisher.
“We are living at a time where people hardly have one-on-one communication since they are so occupied by their devices …. and this is an ideal place for people, especially the vulnerable to come here in a safe environment and get free confidential, independent information and advice,” she said.
“It is a great service we will be providing. Yaay, it has finally happened!”
Beachlands Auckland Council Library, 75 Second View Av, Beachlands,
Maraetai Library, 213 Maraetai Drive, Maraetai