Pāpāmoa Beach Village celebrates 20 years

On Saturday 1 February, Metlifecare’s Pāpāmoa Beach Retirement Village marked its 20-year milestone with a celebration attended by more than 200 residents, staff (past and present) and family members.

Mayor of Tauranga, Mahē Drysdale, joined by three of the village’s first residents from 2005, unveiled a commemorative plaque and cut a special anniversary cake – baked by village kitchen manager and renowned local chef, Stephen Barry.

Known as ‘The Pioneers,’ these early residents – John Morris, Brett Murrell and Brian Fawthrop – shared their early days in the village.

John, now 98, recalled being known as ‘The Barman’ in the early days, taking it upon himself to serving drinks at their early BYO happy hours. A talented wood crafter, a handmade wooden plaque he made in his early days at the village still hangs in the village pavilion.

Brian shared how he became part of the village community before officially moving in. Attending village happy hours and social outings, he formed strong friendships with the residents. The decision to move in was an easy one as “all my furniture fitted into the unit well!”

Through guest speakers, including past and present Village Managers, and Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor (and former Mayor) Stuart Crosby, sharing their cherished memories, the event celebrated the village’s strong community spirit and honoured the people, both past and present, who helped shape its vibrant culture.

Guests reflected on its humble beginnings as a small cluster of homes surrounded by paddocks, it’s 20-year history, and transformation into the thriving village it is today.

Addressing the audience, the Mayor acknowledged the village's role in enriching Tauranga's cultural fabric.

“In the last six months as Mayor I’ve been really impressed by the breadth of community in Tauranga. It enriches the culture of the city in many ways. Communities like yours, and what this village provides is a really big part of that – by providing that connection and sense of belonging.

“Building friendships, and that is certainly something we’ve seen today, is part of what makes both our city and country such a great place to live.”

Since its opening in 2005, Pāpāmoa Beach has grown to 220 independent residents across 168 villas, plus it has an onsite 40-bed residential care home.

With activities like line dancing, ukulele sessions, and themed dinners, the village remains a lively and vibrant community!