Our club was formed in Katikati, at the northern end of the Western Bay of Plenty, NZ, in 1989. At August 2004 our membership of 72 is made up of married couples and singles, who live in an area extending from north of Katikati to Te Puke.

REGION:
The Western Bay of Plenty enjoys a sunny climate.
Tauranga, the commercial center, being the second sunniest city in New Zealand. The climate is ideal for the growing of kiwifruit, avocados and citrus for which the region is recognised. Along with forestry, steel and dairy products the kiwifruit is exported through the Port of Tauranga, NZ's largest export port.
Cruise ships visit the harbour regularly during summer months. Tauranga harbour is protected from the Pacific Ocean by the 22k long, Matakana Island.
Towards the northern end of the Bay is Katikati, widely known for it's murals and craftspeople.
The distinctive 232m extinct volcano Mauao (Mt. Maunganui) guards the entrance to Tauranga harbour, overlooks Tauranga and a 22k stretch of white sandy beach, the most popular surf beach in NZ. The rugged native forest-clad Kaimai ranges form the inland boundary to the narrow fertile coastal plain.

TIME TO VISIT:
The best months to visit are March, April, May and September, October, November. Winter months are June, July and August when frosts can occur and many of our members travel overseas. We try to have our outward exchange scheduled during these winter months.

ACTIVITIES:
Formal functions include a Mayoral reception, including morning tea. A farewell dinner for ambassadors and members of our club. A day visit to the thermal wonderland of Rotorua and other attractions in that area. Various ED arranged outings to local attractions etc.